What to Bring to Your Child’s OT Evaluation in Salt Lake City

By Lauren | Salt Lake Occupational Therapy

Last updated: November 2, 2026

If your toddler or young child has their first occupational therapy (OT) evaluation coming up in Salt Lake City, a little preparation can make the day feel calmer for everyone. This guide explains what to bring, how to talk with your child about the visit, and simple sensory strategies that may help. OT evaluations are individualized and not a diagnosis or treatment by themselves. Every clinic has its own policies, so call ahead if you’re unsure. If you’re ready to take the next step, you can always request a consultation through our online booking page when it fits your family’s schedule.

Why thoughtful prep matters (and what OT evaluates)

An OT evaluation is a collaborative look at your child’s daily occupations—play, self-care, and participation at home and in the community. Many evaluations blend a caregiver interview, observation during play, and age-appropriate activities or standardized tools to understand strengths and challenges. That family-centered approach is core to pediatric OT practice as described by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Tracking what your child does well and where they need help also connects with developmental milestone conversations encouraged for families by the CDC’s Act Early program (CDC).

The goal of day one is not to “pass a test,” but to gather a clear picture so that recommendations and next steps fit your child. When you arrive with helpful information—and a few comfort items—your child may feel safer exploring, and your OT gains a richer window into real-life routines.

What to bring: your parent checklist

Every clinic is different, but these items are commonly helpful. Pack what applies to your child and check with your provider about food, toy, or sibling policies.

Completed intake forms and any past reports (IEP/IFSP, pediatrician notes, therapy or school assessments)
Your questions and top 3 priorities for daily life (written down)
A short video clip of tricky routines (e.g., toothbrushing, mealtime, dressing), if available
A small comfort object or fidget your child already uses (soft toy, chewable necklace, favorite tiny car)
Noise-reducing headphones or sunglasses, if your child is sensitive to sound or light
Water bottle and a simple snack if the clinic allows it (and your child eats during sessions)
Change of clothes, wipes, and any necessary supplies for toileting
List of allergies, medications, and relevant medical history
Any adaptive equipment your child uses (spoon with grip, pencil grip, orthotics)
Insurance card and ID, if requested
Stroller or carrier for siblings, as appropriate

Familiar objects and regulation supports can make a new space feel more predictable, which may help attention and comfort for kids with sensory differences (STAR Institute).

How to talk with your child about the visit

A simple, honest preview helps many children. Pediatric guidance generally encourages using short, concrete language, naming who you’ll meet, and what might happen (American Academy of Pediatrics).

Keep it brief and timely: For toddlers, a same-day preview may work best. For preschoolers, consider a day or two ahead.
Use real words and reassure: “We’re going to meet a helper called an occupational therapist. They’ll play games to learn how your body works. I’ll be with you.”
Focus on participation, not performance: “You can try things and ask for breaks.”
Offer choices where possible: “Do you want to bring your blue car or your squishy ball?”
Practice the plan: A quick role-play at home (checking in, hanging up a coat, saying hello) can build confidence.

Simple scripts you can use

For a toddler: “We’re going to see a helper. We’ll play toys and take breaks. I’m staying with you.”
For a preschooler: “Tomorrow we’ll meet an occupational therapist. They’ll watch how you play, jump, and use your hands. You can say ‘stop’ or ‘break’ if you need.”
For an early elementary child: “The OT wants to learn what feels easy or hard at home and school. We’ll bring your questions and pick goals together.”

Regulation and sensory tips for a smoother day

Every nervous system is different. These ideas are general—not prescriptions—and you can adapt them to your child.

Keep routines predictable: Try to protect sleep the night before and offer a familiar breakfast. Predictability supports regulation for many kids (AAP).
Move before you go: Some children focus better after heavy work (pushing a laundry basket, animal walks) or rhythmic movement. Others need a calm start. Follow your child’s pattern and check with your OT if unsure (STAR Institute).
Dress for success: Soft layers without scratchy tags; easy-on shoes; pack a hoodie or hat if your child uses them to feel grounded.
Plan transitions: Build in extra time for parking, bathrooms, and a quiet arrival.
Create a break plan: Agree on a simple signal your child can use (thumbs down = break). Let the therapist know what helps.

If sensory and emotional regulation are key goals for your family, you may also explore our approach to regulation support for kids and how strategies can be tailored at home and in the community.

Smart questions to ask your OT

Bringing a short list can keep the conversation clear and collaborative.

Which parts of today’s evaluation look at motor skills, sensory processing, and daily routines?
How will you consider our child’s strengths, culture, and interests when setting goals? (A family-centered approach is a core value in OT practice, per AOTA.)
What do you need from us between visits—home activities, environment changes, or school coordination?
How do you support regulation during sessions (breaks, movement, visual schedules)?
What frequency of therapy do you recommend and why?
How do you collaborate with pediatricians or teachers if we share consent?
What is the best way to communicate questions that come up after today?

What happens after the evaluation

Your therapist will synthesize information from your interview, observations, and any assessment tools to share impressions and suggested next steps. Many families appreciate a plain-language summary of strengths, challenge areas, and initial home ideas. If you want a step-by-step walk-through of the appointment flow, you can also read our companion article, Pediatric OT Evaluation in Salt Lake City: What to Expect.

If therapy is recommended, the plan may include parent coaching, play-based skill building, sensory-motor supports, or community-based practice—always individualized. Milestones and progress discussions can be anchored to widely used developmental resources for shared understanding (CDC Act Early).

Local availability and next step for Utah families

Salt Lake Occupational Therapy supports families in Salt Lake City and throughout Utah. If your child’s first visit is approaching and you’d like a review of your checklist—or help deciding what to prioritize—reach out. You can request time that works for you using our booking calendar. We’re happy to coordinate with your pediatrician or school team when you provide consent so your child’s supports line up across settings.

Editorial note

This article is educational and not medical advice. It does not diagnose, treat, or replace guidance from your child’s healthcare providers. If you have urgent safety concerns, contact your pediatrician or local emergency services.

References

Children & Youth: Occupational Therapy Practice. American Occupational Therapy Association. Accessed 2026. https://www.aota.org/practice/children-youth
Learn the Signs. Act Early. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly
STAR Institute for Sensory Processing: Resources for Families. STAR Institute for Sensory Processing. Accessed 2026. https://www.spdstar.org
HealthyChildren.org and AAP: Parenting & Family Life Resources. American Academy of Pediatrics. Accessed 2026. https://www.aap.org

Families can also learn about our home and school occupational therapy sessions when that approach fits their goals.

For a related perspective, read When to Seek Occupational Therapy for a Child in Utah: Clear Signs.