How to Become a Pediatric Occupational Therapist

by Fred Decker

Occupational therapists work with patients whose dexterity, mobility and agility are impaired, helping them develop the fullest possible physical ability. These conditions have a range of underlying causes, including congenital defects, mental illness, the after-effects of drug use, accidents, chronic degenerative illnesses and neurological issues such as strokes. Some therapists work with patients of all types, while others prefer to specialize in the treatment of a specific population, such as children. Pediatric occupational therapists undergo a slightly different training regimen than their peers.

1. Research the schools in your area offering programs in occupational therapy. Some will offer the option of a pediatric focus or specialization, while others will not. Write to schools with a pediatric focus and obtain a copy of their admission prerequisites, or download them from the school's website.

2. Enroll in a bachelor's degree program at a school of your choice. Provide your academic counselor with a copy of the course work you need to complete, for admission to graduate programs in occupational therapy. Choose a suitable major in occupational therapy, the behavioral sciences or a related field.

3. Work or volunteer in a pediatric occupational therapy setting during your undergraduate program. Aside from providing useful experience and potentially a part-time income, practical experience is a prerequisite for some programs.

4. Apply to a master's or doctoral degree program in occupational therapy, with a focus or concentration on pediatrics. Master's degree programs typically require two years, and doctoral programs often take three or more.

5. Complete the necessary course work, 24 weeks' supervised clinical practice, and research requirement if one is part of your degree program.

6. Take and pass the national certification exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Once you've passed, apply to your state for licensing. Requirements vary by state and might require additional examinations or other prerequisites.

7. Test for board certification in pediatric occupational therapy through the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). This step is optional, but can provide additional credibility for therapists in the early stages of their professional career.


  • NBCOT and AOTA certifications must be maintained through an ongoing program of professional development.
  • Some schools offer post-professional certificate programs in pediatric therapy for currently-practicing therapists who wish to realign their practice toward pediatrics, or who find their practice trending in that direction and wish to upgrade their qualifications.

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