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can occupational therapists work with babies?

Babies often bring me such joy and as I am about to go to college and am interested in this field I was wondering if or how I can work with them?

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Stephanie’s Answer

There are a number of settings that OTs work with babies. The most common would be in a pediatric clinic or children’s hospital. Keep in mind that you would work with children of many ages, not just babies. OTs also work in the school districts to provide early intervention which can be anywhere from birth to five. There are some OTs that work in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), but there are not many positions so can be difficult to find. OT is a wonderful profession and one that offers a wide range of opportunities. Many of my classmates thought they wanted to work in pediatrics when first starting the program, but many ended up in other areas as they learned more and tried a variety of areas.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! This information helped me a lot :) Ryley
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Anna’s Answer

Hi Ryley, congratulations on wanting to pursue a career based on something that brings you joy! Yes, occupational therapists work with babies and can have an enormously beneficial impact on their lives. Best wishes on your career search!
Thank you comment icon Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action! Ryley
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Katherine’s Answer

Definitely! Occupational therapists who specialize in working with babies often find themselves in two key settings. They might be based in hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), where they provide care for newborns with health complications. Alternatively, they could be involved in Early Intervention (EI) programs. These programs operate in community settings, daycares, or even in the child's own home, offering therapeutic support to infants and toddlers who are experiencing developmental delays.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice. Ryley
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Caroline’s Answer

Hi Ryley!

I'm an OT who works in a NICU! It is so rewarding to watch an infant grow and develop and know you are playing a role in their brain development, sensory development, and helping parents/caregivers bond with their child.

In some NICU, OT will be the ones completing feeding assessments and interventions along with positional supports, massage intervention, modifications to the environment and parent/staff training.

The National Association for Neonatal Therapist (NANT) has free information on what therapist do in the NICU. Pampers, huggies and other baby brands have free courses you can take as a student to learn more about therapy's role in the NICU

As someone mentioned above jobs in this area are hard to come by, but if you are really interested in working in the NICU/PEDI/PICU units keep you eyes and ears open. Life is funny and you never know where it will take you.

Best of luck!
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