What is the best action for an occupational therapist to take after an early intervention screening shows an 8-month-old child can sit independently?

The best action for an occupational therapist after determining that an 8-month-old child can sit independently is to evaluate the child's sensorimotor skills using a standardized evaluation. Conducting a standardized evaluation allows the therapist to gather comprehensive data on the child's overall development, including fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, and other areas of functional performance. This information is crucial for tailoring a specific intervention plan that addresses the child's unique needs and supporting their developmental milestones.

By using standardized measures, the therapist can establish a baseline for the child's abilities, monitor progress over time, and identify any areas where additional support or intervention may be necessary. This approach helps ensure that the child receives the appropriate level of care, which ultimately fosters optimal development and functioning.

Other options, while potentially beneficial in certain contexts, do not provide the same level of thorough assessment necessary for planning targeted interventions. For example, simply encouraging more sitting practice may reinforce a skill the child has already mastered but fails to address further developmental needs. Referring the child to a pediatrician for further assessment may be warranted in certain situations, but in the context of successfully sitting independently, it may not be the next appropriate action. Offering sensory play activities can be useful but does not replace the need for a formal evaluation to