Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy

Paediatric Occupational Therapist in Newcastle 

  • Supporting Families Across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter Region
  • Encouraging Confidence Through Personalised Care
  • Collaborative Support for Families & Educators

Child-Centred Care

Tailored Assessments

Therapy Support

Family-Focused Solutions

Fun & Interactive Occupational Therapy


Welcome to Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy.


At Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy, we are passionate about delivering high-quality occupational therapy solutions designed for children and their families.


Our paediatric occupational therapist, Melanie Ward, is dedicated to providing treatments that focus on helping to develop essential motor and neurological age-appropriate skills in infants, children, and adolescents up to 18 years of age. We provide assessments and treatments in the following areas:


  • Muscle tone, joint stability & core strength
  • Motor coordination & postural stability
  • Motor learning
  • Handwriting, posture & grapho-motor skills
  • Neurodevelopmental areas
  • Sensory processing, sensory overload & behavioural challenges
  • Visual perception
  • Self-care skills


Early intervention is the cornerstone of helping to achieve positive outcomes through therapy. Our treatment strategies are thoughtfully designed to help children overcome barriers that may limit their learning, participation in play, or ability to keep up with their peers in performing functional tasks.  We also offer caregiver education programs to equip families with the tools to assist their child at home.


Take the first step towards unlocking your child’s potential—call us today on (02) 4940 6507. We assist children and families across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Hunter Region, Charlestown, Broadmeadow, Merewether, Mayfield, Belmont, and Swansea

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Our Services


We offer assessments to evaluate your child’s development, identifying strengths and challenges. Using standardised tools, observations, and insights, we create personalised strategies to address issues in motor skills, sensory processing, and cognitive abilities.

With our tailored therapy sessions, we focus on developing critical motor, sensory, and self-care skills through engaging, child-centred activities. These sessions aim to increase confidence, independence, and social interaction, fostering growth in a supportive environment.

We provide parents and caregivers with practical strategies to manage sensory needs, improve communication, and encourage independence. Our guidance empowers families to support their child’s development, fostering a nurturing environment at home and in daily routines.

Collaborative & Supportive Approach


Collaboration forms the foundation of our work. We actively engage with parents, caregivers, and educators to create practical strategies that integrate seamlessly into daily routines, fostering steady progress and consistency both at home and in the wider community. By working together, we aim to empower families with the tools and knowledge needed to support their child’s growth and development.


Our welcoming and inclusive environment is carefully designed to inspire confidence and encourage children to build essential life skills in a safe and nurturing space. We understand that development takes time and care, so our approach focuses on creating positive, supportive experiences that nurture a child’s overall well-being. Whether your child is building skills for school or developing everyday independence, we’re here to assist their growth at every stage of their journey.

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Helping Children Reach Their Potential with Tailored Support

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Creating Practical Strategies for Developmental Growth

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Empowering Families with Tools to Navigate Developmental Milestones

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Frequently Asked Questions


  • What do occupational therapists do and how can they assist my child?

    Occupational therapists work with people to enhance their ability to participate in everyday life activities that they want to, need to, or are expected to do. Paediatric occupational therapists assess and provide treatment for a child if they are having difficulty in any of their activities be it sport, education, leisure or just being a family member. We can provide interventions that involve the use of therapeutic activities to progress development in self-care, play and learning, therefore improving your child's sensory, physical, academic, social and emotional abilities.

  • When should I refer my child to an occupational therapist?

    If you or anyone involved in the care of your child (e.g. paediatrician, psychologist, preschool, your child's teacher) is concerned about your child's development, or if your child is struggling with learning or everyday activities, you should consider contacting us on (02) 4940 6507 and make an appointment for a consultation with Melanie Ward. Through a series of therapy sessions, Melanie can assist your child to meet their developmental milestones. Early intervention is the key to gaining optimum results.

  • What are the costs involved and can I claim anything back?

    Assessment costs depend on several factors, including the duration of the assessment, the complexity of your child's needs, and whether a detailed written report is required. Please call us on (02) 4940 6507 to discuss your child’s individual circumstances — we’ll be happy to provide an approximate quote based on your needs.


    Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy supports families whose children are self-managed or managed through a recognised agency under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). While we are not registered with the NDIS, we are able to treat participants who manage their own plan or use a plan manager.


    We also provide therapy under the following arrangements:


    • Medicare rebates are available for children with chronic medical conditions.
    • Team Care Arrangements allow for up to 5 subsidised allied health sessions (including occupational therapy) per calendar year. These are available when your child is being managed under an Enhanced Primary Care Plan by your GP.
    • Mental Health Care Plans and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Plans may also be applicable for children aged 6 to 15.

    To find out which funding options might help cover your assessment or therapy costs, we welcome you to contact us on (02) 4940 6507. Some private health funds also offer rebates for occupational therapy — the level of cover varies, so please check with your insurer. Newcastle Paediatric Occupational Therapy offers both HICAPS and EFTPOS payment facilities for your convenience.

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