Social skills are an essential part of every child’s development—but for many children with sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, or autism, engaging with peers doesn’t always come naturally. At the OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapy program goes beyond physical development—it supports children in learning how to interact, communicate, and build relationships in a structured and nurturing environment.
Understanding the Social Side of Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is often associated with helping children improve motor skills or manage sensory sensitivities, but it also plays a vital role in fostering emotional regulation and social confidence. Children who struggle with transitions, personal space, or interpreting social cues often find group interactions overwhelming or frustrating.
In a therapeutic setting, occupational therapists use play-based activities to gently guide children through shared experiences like turn-taking, waiting, and initiating conversations. This is especially effective in small group or peer-paired settings where children can practice skills in real-time, with the support of a trained therapist.
Social Interaction and Sensory Integration
Many children in Phnom Penh who attend occupational therapy do so because of underlying sensory integration challenges. These children may be hyper- or hypo-sensitive to touch, sound, or movement—affecting their behavior in group situations.
For example, a child who is overly sensitive to noise might shy away from group activities in the classroom. Through occupational therapy, we work on gradually exposing children to sensory input in a controlled way, helping them feel safe and confident in shared environments. This improves their ability to enjoy group play, build friendships, and participate in class routines.
Helping Children Thrive in School and Beyond
Developing social skills early is crucial for long-term academic and emotional success. At OrbRom Center, we focus on equipping children with practical tools: using visual schedules to understand routines, learning to express emotions with picture cards or sentence starters, and practicing conflict resolution during role-play games.
We see children who once avoided eye contact begin to initiate greetings. We witness students who used to play alone begin to laugh and collaborate with others. These milestones—however small—are foundational in building self-esteem and a sense of belonging.
A Supportive Environment for Phnom Penh Families
At our Phnom Penh-based center, we tailor each occupational therapy plan to match the unique needs of the child. We also involve families in the process, offering coaching and feedback so that the social learning continues beyond the session.
If you’re a parent in Phnom Penh and have noticed your child struggling with social interactions, consider exploring occupational therapy services at OrbRom Center. Whether it’s helping your child join in group play, communicate better with peers, or feel less anxious in public settings, our team is here to support your journey.
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