How to Prepare for Your Child's First Therapy Appointment

Here's what we recommend at Kids + Co.Lab to help you feel ready.

1. Write down what's been on your mind

You've probably been noticing things for a while. The struggles at mealtimes. The meltdowns during transitions. The way your child avoids certain textures or seems to crash into everything. Before your appointment, take 10 minutes to jot it all down.

Don't worry about using the right words — just describe what you see at home, at school, or out in the community. The more specific and real you can be, the better we can understand your child's world.

2. Think about your goals — not just the challenges

It's easy to arrive at a first appointment focused on what's hard. And yes, we absolutely want to hear that. But we also want to know what you're hoping for.

What would make your family's day-to-day life feel easier? What does your child love? What are they working towards?

Families often come to us focused on funding goals — and that's completely valid — but the most meaningful outcomes come when we understand the whole picture of your child's life.

3. Email any relevant reports or paperwork

If your child has had previous assessments, a diagnosis, or school reports, bring them along or send them through ahead of time. You don't need to have everything — even a previous OT report or a letter from your GP is helpful context.

Already on the NDIS? Bring your current plan so we can make sure our recommendations align with your NDIS Plan Goals.

4. Prepare your child — but keep it low key

You know your child best. Some kids do better with lots of notice; others feel more anxious if they've had too long to think about it.

A simple, honest explanation works well: "We're going to meet someone who helps kids with [describe it in their language]. You might play some games and they'll want to get to know you."

Avoid overselling it ("It's going to be so fun!") or minimising it ("It's no big deal"). Just honest and calm — your child will take their cue from you.

5. Give yourself permission to ask questions

Your first appointment is as much about us getting to know each other as it is about assessment. You're allowed to ask how we work, what therapy might look like, how long things might take, and whether we're the right fit.

A good therapy relationship is built on trust — and that goes both ways.

You've already done the hard part

Reaching out and booking that first appointment takes courage, especially when you're navigating a system that can feel overwhelming. We're here to make the rest of it feel a little easier.

📍 Kids + Co.Lab is a paediatric OT service based on the Sunshine Coast. We work with children aged 0–18 and their families across a wide range of needs.

Get in touch here to book your first appointment.