Nicole le Roux Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in developing mathematical skills in children by addressing the foundational stages of learning. Before children can grasp abstract math concepts, they must first build strong cognitive, sensory-motor, and perceptual skills. At the practice, we support this by strengthening attention, memory, visual-spatial processing, and fine motor coordination—essential for number recognition, counting, and problem-solving.

We work through a step-by-step approach that begins with early developmental skills such as sorting, patterning, and sequencing, and progresses toward more complex tasks like mental math, estimation, and multi-step problem-solving. Each stage of development builds upon the previous one, and occupational therapists tailor interventions to meet each child at their individual level of readiness.

By fostering confidence, motivation, and hands-on engagement through play-based and functional activities, our practice helps children make meaningful connections with numbers and apply them in everyday situations—laying the groundwork for academic success and lifelong learning.

✨ Watching babies grow is truly amazing — especially as they begin to develop their fine motor skills and early cognitive concepts that lay the foundation for lifelong learning! 🧠👶 As an occupational therapist, supporting these milestones is at the heart of what we do. From grasping toys and bringing hands to midline, to pointing, transferring objects between hands, and eventually mastering the pincer grasp — each tiny movement builds strength, coordination, and brain-body connection. 💪🖐️

We also focus on introducing basic concepts like cause and effect (shake the rattle and it makes noise!), object permanence (peekaboo never gets old!), and early problem-solving through play. These moments aren’t just cute — they’re essential for developmental progress.

🔍 Encouraging babies through purposeful play, tummy time, and sensory-rich environments fosters both motor development and early learning. If you're a parent, caregiver, or therapist, remember: every little reach, grasp, and giggle is a step toward independence. 💛

We are excited for what 2025 has in store for Nicole le Roux Occupational Therapy!

Our practice will be open from 6 January however regular session will commence as usual from the 13 January 2025.

Reminders will be sent out.

We look forward to the new year with you! There are so many new project launches and exciting things coming in 2025.

Endless fun has always included play dough!

Play dough can include developing multiple skills and sensory stimulation for multiple sensory systems simultaneously.

When playing with play dough our children benefit by:
- Developing fine motor skills by strengthening hand muscles.
- Creating a calming effect.
- Encouraging creativity with manipulation methods, tool use and creations.
- Enhancing hand-eye coordination.
- Creating opportunities for social skill practice.
- Making learning basic concepts fun and engaging.
- Creating sensory experiences with scents and textures.

The best part of play dough it is easy to make at home and ensures endless enjoyment.

Contact for more information:
[email protected] | 0729945079 | www.nicolelerouxot.co.za

Merry Christmas | Geseënde Kersfees

A Merry Christmas and Happy Festive season to all our clients, parents, grandparents, families and friends who have been part of the journey this year at the practice.

We appreciate each and every one of you. It is a privilege to be part of each child's growth and development.

Be safe and wishing all the best time with loved ones.

Child-led occupational therapy is all about empowering kids to take charge of their own growth and development.

Child-led therapy includes using what is meaningful to a client and adapting the activity to be therapeutic specific to each client.

Through play and exploration, children naturally develop the skills they need for life—whether it’s fine motor coordination, problem-solving, or social interaction. As an occupational therapist, I guide the process while allowing children to lead the way, making therapy enjoyable, meaningful, and, most importantly, fun! Every child has unique strengths, and through child-led therapy, we celebrate their progress one playful step at a time.

Contact for more information:
[email protected] | 0729945079 | www.nicolelerouxot.co.za

We love puzzles in all different types and for all different age groups!

Puzzles have benefits for all ages including:
- Reducing stress
- Sense of accomplishment
- Improves memory
- Quality time with family and friends
- Spatial awareness
- Fine motor and hand-eye coordination practice
- Problem solving skills

Contact for more information:
[email protected] | 0729945079 | www.nicolelerouxot.co.za

Skill development isn't just about mastering tasks; it’s about building confidence, independence, and resilience. Whether it's learning how to tie your shoes, hold a pencil, or manage daily routines, each new skill is an achievement!

As an occupational therapist, I’m here to help you navigate these challenges with patience, creativity, and expert support. Let's make every day a step closer to each client'sgoals!

Contact for more information:
[email protected] | 0729945079 | www.nicolelerouxot.co.za

Empowering Growth, One Skill at a Time!

Every step forward is a victory in the journey of skill development! As an occupational therapist, I believe in empowering my clients to build the skills they need to live more independent and fulfilling lives. From motor skills to cognitive development and everything in between, each milestone matters.

Join our support groups where your child can grow and learn.

Paarl: 11 Nov – 4 Dec 2024
9-12 years - Mondays 17:00-18:00
13-18 years – Wednesdays 17:00-18:00

Equipping children and teens with healthy strategies to grow and learn in everyday life. These four weeks will contain fun and engaging activities to learn more about themselves.

Four group session focusing on:
Session 1: Self-awareness, identity, self-esteem, confidence.
Session 2: Social and communication skills (Forming and maintaining friendships, effective communication, practice social cues).
Session 3: Executive functioning (Task planning, organizational skills, time management skills, memory, prioritizing).
Session 4: Self-regulation and emotional-regulation strategies (Anxiety, overwhelm, concentration).

Contact for more information:
[email protected] | 0729945079 | www.nicolelerouxot.co.za

Did you know that you can help build a child’s brain - starting even before babies can talk? Simple “serve and return” interactions between adults and young children help make strong connections in developing brains. And, it’s easy and fun to do! This how-to video breaks down serve and return into 5 simple steps and features adults and young children doing each step together.

Source: Centre on the Developing child, Harvard University

5 Steps for Brain-Building Serve and Return Did you know that you can help build a child’s brain - starting even before babies can talk? Simple “serve and return” interactions between adults and young ...