From Compliance to Connection:

20 OT Goals That Shift the Focus

Because today’s therapists need goals that reflect regulation, connection,

and real-life capacity—not just performance.

Pediatric occupational therapy is evolving—fast.
Post-COVID, our caseloads are packed with kids whose challenges go beyond fine motor delays or handwriting struggles.

So often, the goals we’re expected to write don’t reflect what these children truly need to feel safe, seen, and successful.

We're seeing...

  • Emotional dysregulation that hijacks entire sessions

  • Sensory overload that looks like "behavior"

  • Kids who melt down or check out—before we even get started

That’s why I created this free guide:

A curated list of 20 functional, regulation-informed goals that meet

kids where they are—and gently guide them forward.

These goals support:

  • Emotional safety and nervous system regulation

  • Relational connection and co-regulation

  • Meaningful participation in daily routines and play

  • Realistic, measurable progress that honors the whole child

From One OT to Another

Hi, I’m Kate—a mom and a pediatric occupational therapist with a background in developmental psychology who works in early intervention, preschools, and school-based settings.

Like you, I believe real change starts when we dig deeper than the surface behavior and build from the inside out. These goals reflect that lens: they’re not just about checking boxes—they’re about building capacity, confidence, and connection.

Grab Your Free Download

If you’re ready to stop forcing goals that don’t fit—and start supporting the kids in front of you with clarity and intention—this guide is for you.

Get the free PDF: 20 OT Goals for the Emotionally Complex Child.
Write goals that feel aligned, attainable, and powerful.

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