A space to rest, a place to grow.
Paediatric occupational therapy for children, and the families who love them.
Play-based sessions. Goals set with your family. Strengths first.
How we can help
Occupational therapy is about the things children do every day: playing, learning, eating, dressing and getting along with others. When something makes those things hard, we help find a way through.
Fine motor and handwriting
Building hand strength, pencil skills, scissor use and the coordination behind writing, drawing and craft.
Sensory processing
Helping children who are overwhelmed by, or seek out, sensory input feel more comfortable and ready to take part.
Everyday routines
Dressing, mealtimes, toileting, sleep and morning routines: the daily tasks that make home life run smoother.
Emotional regulation
Practical tools to help children recognise big feelings, calm their bodies and bounce back.
Play and social skills
Turn-taking, flexibility and connecting with other children, through play that feels natural.
School participation
Sitting, organising, keeping up and feeling settled in the classroom and on the playground.
How we work
Play is the work
Children learn best when they're engaged and having fun. Our sessions are built around play, movement and the things your child already loves.
Families are part of the team
You know your child best. We set goals together, share strategies you can use at home and school, and keep you in the loop.
Strengths first
We start with what your child does well and build from there, so progress feels good rather than like a list of things to fix.
What to expect
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1
Get in touch
Send a referral or enquiry. We'll reply to talk about what's going on and whether we're the right fit.
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2
First session
We get to know your child and your family through play, observation and conversation.
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3
Set goals together
We agree on what matters most to you and your child, and put together a simple, practical plan.
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4
Therapy and review
Regular sessions, home strategies and check-ins, so we can celebrate progress and adjust as your child grows.
Every child grows in their own way
Bower & Bloom is a paediatric occupational therapy practice. A bower is a sheltered, leafy nook: a place to rest and feel safe. Bloom is what happens next.
Our job is to create that space for children, so they can build the skills and confidence to do what matters to them: playing, learning, looking after themselves and being part of their family and community.
Meet Ashleigh
Ashleigh Hauschild, Occupational Therapist
Hi, I'm Ashleigh, the occupational therapist behind Bower & Bloom. I work with children and their families to make everyday life feel easier, from getting dressed and eating meals to learning and playing with friends.
Children do their best when they feel safe, understood and are having fun. My sessions are play-based, and I work alongside parents and carers so the strategies we try fit your child and your family.
- Paediatric occupational therapy for children and their families
- Support for NDIS-funded families (self-managed and plan-managed)
- Functional Capacity Assessments, with limited availability
Questions families often ask
What is paediatric occupational therapy?
It's support for children to take part in the everyday activities of childhood, like playing, learning, eating, dressing and making friends. We look at what's getting in the way and work with your child and family to build skills, adjust tasks or change the environment.
How do I know if my child could benefit?
If daily routines, school tasks, play or big feelings often feel harder than they should for your child, it's worth a conversation. You don't need a diagnosis to get in touch.
Do we need a referral?
Many families reach out directly. A referral from a GP, paediatrician or school is welcome, and if your funding or health plan needs one, we'll let you know.
What happens in the first session?
We spend time getting to know your child and your family through play, observation and conversation. Together we'll talk about what's working, what's tricky and what you'd like to change, then agree on goals.
Do parents stay during sessions?
This depends on your child's age and goals. Many families find it helpful to be involved, and we'll agree on what works best together.
Do you work with NDIS-funded families?
Yes. We support children whose NDIS plans are self-managed or plan-managed. If your child's plan is managed by the NDIA (sometimes called agency-managed), get in touch and we'll talk through your options, which can include asking for a change of plan management at your next plan review. Not sure how your child's plan is managed? Check the plan itself or ask your plan manager or support coordinator.
Do you complete Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs)?
Yes. A Functional Capacity Assessment is a detailed occupational therapy assessment of how your child's disability affects everyday life, such as self-care, play, learning and getting around. The report can be used as evidence for an NDIS application, a plan review or a change in circumstances. Not every child needs one, and we can help you work out whether it's the right step.
FCAs take a lot of time, from talking with your family and observing your child to writing the report, so we only take a limited number at a time. If you think your child needs one, contact us as early as you can, ideally well before a plan review or deadline, and we'll let you know our current availability.
How else is therapy funded?
Funding depends on your situation. Get in touch and we'll talk through your options.
Where do sessions happen?
The best setting depends on your child's goals. We'll talk it through with you at the start.
Let's talk about your child
Send us a few details and we'll be in touch to talk about how we can help. Families, GPs, paediatricians and schools are all welcome to make a referral.
You can also email us directly:
hello@bowerandbloomot.com.auPlease keep this form to the basics. We'll ask for anything else once we've spoken.