🧠 Occupational Therapy for Teens: Life Skills and Executive Function
- claire2876
- Nov 2
- 1 min read
Introduction
Teenagers face increasing expectations — balancing school, friendships, part-time jobs, and future planning. Occupational therapy supports teens to develop executive function and life skills needed for success in adulthood.
Executive Function and Independence
Executive functions include planning, organisation, time management, and emotional regulation — all crucial for daily functioning. Teens who struggle in these areas often feel overwhelmed or unmotivated, impacting study, relationships, and mental health. OTs help teens build systems and strategies for independence.
OT Tips for Teens
1. Use Visual Planners: Encourage digital or paper planners for tracking homework, deadlines, and commitments.
2. Create a Study Routine: Set consistent study times, use timers, and include breaks to avoid burnout.
3. Teach Prioritisation: Help teens list tasks by urgency and importance.
4. Build Emotional Awareness: Use reflection tools like mood trackers or journaling to identify triggers and coping strategies.
5. Encourage Real-Life Responsibility: Cooking, budgeting, and time management activities help teens build adult-ready skills.
Home Program Ideas
Weekly Planning Session: Teens list tasks for the week, set goals, and review achievements.
Cooking Challenge: Choose one new meal to prepare independently.
Budgeting Game: Use mock or real spending scenarios to practise money management.
Mindfulness Exercises: Teach short breathing or grounding techniques to manage stress.
Social Skills Practice: Encourage teens to role-play conflict resolution or assertive communication.
Empower your teen to develop stronger life skills and independence with support from our occupational therapy team at South Coast Therapy & Support Group.📞 Call (02) 4421 6013 or make a referral at https://www.sctherapysupport.au/make-a-referral.
