How should an occupational therapist assess a child's cognitive abilities in play?

Assessing a child's cognitive abilities in play is most effectively done by analyzing problem-solving during play. This method allows the occupational therapist to observe how the child interacts with their environment, manages challenges, and uses resources during playtime. Problem-solving is a key cognitive skill, and observing it in a naturalistic setting, like play, gives insight into the child's thinking processes, creativity, and ability to adapt strategies in real time.

Structured play activities and standardized testing approaches also have their place in assessment, but they may not capture the nuances of a child's cognitive functioning in the same way that spontaneous play does. Structured activities can sometimes limit how a child expresses their cognitive abilities, while standardized tests may not reflect a child's strengths and weaknesses in more naturalistic settings. Observing problem-solving in play encompasses a range of cognitive skills—such as reasoning, planning, and executing—offering a comprehensive view of how a child thinks and learns when they are engaged and motivated. This insight can then inform therapeutic interventions tailored to the child's individual needs.