Occupational Therapy is not just for your child, it is for the whole family.
When one family member struggles, it impacts everyone. Parents, siblings, and even the wider family feel it. It is something I have seen again and again, both professionally and personally.
This is why, in my occupational therapy consults with parents, I always start with one simple but important question:
How are you really feeling?
Not just “fine.” Really feeling.
Because the reality is, your child’s struggles affect you.
You affect them.
And they affect their siblings.
It is all connected.
Looking Beyond the Child
In OT, we do not just zoom in on your neurodivergent child’s sensory, emotional, or coordination needs. We look at the bigger picture—how their needs ripple through your daily life, your relationships, and the family as a whole.
This is why support around sensory processing, interoception, and co-regulation is not just helpful for your child.
It matters just as much for you and for their siblings too.
You and Your Child
When your child is struggling with regulation or sensory input, it often triggers something in you too.
You might feel drained, tense, snappy, or constantly on edge, especially if you are stuck in a pattern of stress or overwhelm.
That is why one of the first things we work on in parent consults is you.
>Your nervous system.
>Your sense of safety.
>Your ability to stay grounded even when your child is not.
With small, intentional steps, we support you to come back into your body, regulate your own responses, and meet your child with more calm, confidence, and compassion.
Your Child and Their Siblings
Siblings are often deeply affected too.
They might feel like they are walking on eggshells, never knowing when the next meltdown or reaction will come.
They might start shrinking themselves, over-helping, or quietly absorbing the stress of the home environment.
Their nervous systems matter just as much.
That is why we take family dynamics into account and explore ways to include siblings in regulation routines, sensory play, and co-created solutions.
Not as caretakers or fixers, but as supported and seen members of the family.
What We Explore Together
In parent consults, we start by understanding:
- Your child’s behaviours and why they do what they do
- How your responses and regulation impact their reactions
- How your child’s needs affect siblings
- How to support you with practical sensory tools and strategies
- What co-regulation looks like in your family, and how to strengthen it
The goal is never perfection.
It is about creating a more connected, supported family environment where everyone’s needs are considered, not just the child who is struggling.
Parenting is hard ….. and you deserve support too!
If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone.
You are allowed to need support too.
And OT can be one place where your whole family’s nervous systems are acknowledged, understood, and gently guided forward.
📩 Get in touch to schedule a one to one consult to explore how OT can support your child and your family.
I would be honoured to work with you.
-Munira
