Every Child’s Path Looks Different: Understanding Occupational Therapy vs Physiotherapy

Comparing Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy When attempting to assist their child’s development, many parents ask this question. Children benefit greatly from both therapies in terms of developing self-reliance, self-assurance, and vital life skills. But how can you tell which one is best for your child? Your child’s development, both emotionally and physically, can be greatly influenced by your understanding of their differences.

Some kids run before they can walk. Some people take their time and carefully explore the world one small step at a time. And it’s acceptable.

But occasionally, you notice little details. Your child avoids certain textures, trips easily, or has trouble holding a pencil. You’re not sure how to assist, but you want to.

Therapy comes in at that point.

Both Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy help children develop, learn, and move freely. Although their methods differ, they all aim to give your child a sense of strength, competence, and self-acceptance.

At Janalli Services, we see beyond “sessions.” We see stories the proud smiles, the tiny wins, the moments that make all the effort worth it.

The Main Difference: Occupational Therapy vs Physiotherapy Doing vs Moving

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

• Occupational Therapy (OT) helps your child do things from eating with a spoon to dressing, playing, or holding a pencil.
• Physiotherapy (PT) helps your child move better walking, balancing, climbing, or strengthening their body.

As HealthDirect Australia puts it, physiotherapy focuses on motor development and coordination. Meanwhile, Raising Children Network explains that occupational therapy helps with the “doing”everyday skills, focus, and sensory comfort.

Both are important. One helps your child’s body move, the other helps it participate.

How to Know Whether Your Child Needs OT or Physiotherapy

Your child may benefit more from Occupational Therapy if they need support with:

• Daily independence, eating, dressing, or using the restroom
• Fine-motor abilities such as grip strength, writing, and cutting
• Problems with sensory processing
• Regulating behaviour through organised routines
• Increasing self-assurance in routine tasks

Your child may benefit more from Physiotherapy if they need support with:

• Walking, running, climbing, or balance
• Muscle strength, flexibility, or endurance
• Coordination and gross motor milestones
• Posture and body alignment
• Physical rehabilitation after injury or surgery

Many children benefit from both, depending on their goals and developmental needs.

Which Therapy Fits Your Child Best Occupational Therapy vs Physiotherapy?

Occupational Therapy might help if your child:

• Avoids tasks like writing or dressing
• Is sensitive to certain textures or sounds
• Finds focus hard to maintain
• Struggles with independence in self-care

Physiotherapy might help if your child:

• Has weak muscles or poor balance
• Walks on tiptoes or trips easily
• Tires quickly during physical play
• Seems less coordinated than peers

Local Support from a Registered NDIS Provider in Logan and Surrounding Suburbs

We proudly support participants across Logan and nearby areas, offering services that are accessible, consistent, and personalised. Our team regularly assists individuals in the following suburbs:

Areas We Serve

• Springwood
• Browns Plains
• Beenleigh
• Woodridge
• Logan Central
• Marsden
• Yarrabilba
• Logan City Council region

Why Our Local Coverage Matters

• Support workers familiar with Logan communities
• Faster response times and flexible scheduling
• Services tailored to local routines and environments
• Strong, ongoing relationships with families

With a dedicated local team, we ensure that your support is always close to home and aligned with your needs.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect	Occupational Therapy (OT)	Physiotherapy (PT)
Focus	Daily living and fine motor skills	Strength, balance, and physical coordination
Helps With	Writing, feeding, dressing, attention	Running, jumping, posture, endurance
Style	Play-based, creative, sensory-rich	Movement-based, fun physical games
Goal	Build confidence and independence	Improve strength and mobility
Tools Used	Adaptive tools, textures, crafts	Balance aids, exercise mats, obstacle play
Outcome	Everyday success	Physical growth and movement confidence

Myth vs Fact

Myth	Fact
“Physiotherapy is for sports injuries.”	Physio helps children develop strength and coordination, not just recovery.
“Occupational Therapy is just playtime.”	Play is how children learn OTs use it strategically to build skills.
“You can only pick one.”	Many children benefit from both therapies working together.

Why Janalli Services?

At Janalli Services, therapy isn’t just clinical it’s caring, creative, and fun. Our Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists work together to help children reach their goals, big or small.

We’re proud to be a registered NDIS provider, supporting families across Logan and nearby areas.

Read our related guide: Registered NDIS Provider in Logan

Start the Journey Today

Let’s help your child grow stronger, play happier, and live more independently one small step at a time.

📍 About Us | Contact Us
📧 info@janalliservices.com.au
📞 0403-258-258
🌐 Connect on Facebook