For children with autism, the path to independence often starts on the floor - rolling around, playing games and just having fun.
That is by design, according to Erik Jacobsen, an occupational therapist with MetroEHS who specializes in autism care.
“In autism care, it looks like play. It’s fun, lots of games, getting down on the floor, rolling around, having a good time.”
Occupational therapy, or OT, is a field focused on helping individuals build the skills needed for daily life. For children on the autism spectrum, that can mean learning to dress themselves, use the bathroom independently or develop feeding routines - milestones that many families work toward for years.
Jacobsen said the most meaningful moments in his work come quietly, without fanfare.
“Every time you have a kid do something for the first time, you get this recognition, this expression from them. Their eyes get real big, they smile, they’re super happy because they did something for the first time without help. Those are the small things that are actually big things.”
Jacobsen, who was inspired to enter the field after shadowing at the Lyle Torrent Center in Jackson, Michigan, said the best OTs bring patience, empathy and creativity to the job.
MetroEHS is hosting a career event on April 30. Those interested in learning more or registering can visit metroehs.com/wdiv.