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Kaylie joined Vision Australia as a paediatric occupational therapist two years ago. She says working in paediatrics is simply, just fun! “There aren’t many other jobs where your hands spend more time in puppets than on a keyboard.”

Initially drawn to occupational therapy because it would allow her to help people, Kaylie says she loves the creativity and problem solving involved in client-centred practice.

Taking the time to build rapport and understand each client’s likes, dislikes, dreams and motivations is critical, as is working closely with families.  

A typical workday for Kaylie means session-planning, finding and packing resources, travelling up to 1.5 hours a day to visit clients, then finishing the day in the office.

Kaylie says her favourite moments are when she is challenged to think ‘outside the box’, such as when a young client found learning to use scissors very difficult. She found a solution through something they loved doing - watching YouTube videos.

Kaylie is sitting on a blue couch, surrounded by toys and games she uses in her practice
Kaylie, Paediatric occupational therapist

“I made mock ‘YouTube’ videos that taught the viewer how to grasp scissors and complete various activities. When I presented these to the client on an iPad, they LOVED it!” 

Planning and building strong connections are essential. Kaylie dedicates many hours to designing sessions to fit the specific needs and challenges of each client, tailoring activities to help them work towards their goals.

“It is a really special feeling to be thanked for your efforts. I get to be in a beautiful and unique position of working closely with families, becoming a support person and helping people grow their confidence. Not a lot of jobs offer this, and for that I am really grateful,” says Kaylie.

It’s no wonder Kaylie and her young clients are thriving. Your compassion and kindness makes this possible.