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OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY FOR KIDS IN FORT SMITH, RIVER VALLEY & NWA
We help kids improve fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, coordination, and independence through evidence-based techniques rooted in play.
We specialize in mobile pediatric occupational therapy and also offer in-clinic sessions for families who prefer a structured setting.
Where We Provide Occupational Therapy
No two families are the same, and that’s why we offer therapy in the environment that works best for yours.
In-home therapy
We bring occupational therapy to the comfort and familiarity of your home. Children often feel most at ease in their own space, allowing them to focus and grow naturally.
School and daycare visits
Our therapists partner with schools and daycares to integrate therapy into your child’s daily routine. This reduces scheduling stress for families and allows for continuity of care.
In-clinic therapy
Our Fort Smith clinic is designed to be welcoming and kid-friendly. For families who prefer a structured setting with equipment and tools tailored to therapy, our clinic is a perfect fit.
About our Pediatric OT
At Ray of Sunshine Pediatric Therapy, we provide occupational therapy services tailored to meet your child’s needs, whether that’s in your home, at school, or in our welcoming Fort Smith clinic. Our team serves families throughout Fort Smith, the River Valley, and Northwest Arkansas (NWA), with a flexible approach that brings quality care wherever your child thrives best.
What is pediatric occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy helps children develop the skills they need for daily life, whether that means holding a pencil, getting dressed independently, or staying focused in school. Our therapists support children ages 0–20 through personalized, child-led therapy that feels safe, engaging, and empowering.
Who benefits from occupational therapy?
Children with a wide range of abilities and challenges can benefit from occupational therapy.
We commonly support children with:
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Developmental delays
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Sensory processing difficulties
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Autism spectrum disorder
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ADHD or executive functioning challenges
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Trouble with handwriting or classroom focus
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Daily routine struggles like brushing teeth, eating, or getting dressed
Why families choose Ray of Sunshine for Pediatric occupational Therapy
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Ray of Sunshine FAQs
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What is the difference between hippotherapy and therapeutic horseback riding?Hippotherapy is a clinical treatment performed by a licensed therapist and focuses on medical goals. Therapeutic riding is recreational and may be led by an instructor rather than a therapist.
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Is horse therapy safe for children?Yes, safety is our priority. All sessions are conducted with trained handlers, therapists, and approved horses in a controlled environment.
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Where does Hippotherapy take place?Hippotherapy is done at Chaffee Crossing facility in Barling, AR
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How old should a child be to begin hippotherapy?Children must be a minimum of 3+ years old. Each case may be evaluated individually.
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What is pediatric aquatic therapy and how does it help?Pediatric aquatic therapy uses the natural properties of water, like buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure, to help children improve strength, coordination, mobility, and sensory processing. The water makes movement easier and more fun, creating an ideal environment for kids with a range of developmental and physical challenges.
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Who is a good candidate for aquatic therapy?Aquatic therapy is beneficial for children with: Developmental delays Sensory processing disorders Cerebral palsy Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Muscle weakness or low tone Coordination or balance difficulties Joint or muscle pain If your child struggles with traditional land-based therapy or needs a gentler, more supportive environment, aquatic therapy could be a great fit.
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Where do aquatic therapy sessions take place?We partner with a nonprofit, River Valley Sports Academy in Fort Smith, AR and utilize their commercial-grade pools to provide our therapeutic aquatic therapy sessions
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What should my child wear to aquatic therapy?Children should wear a comfortable, well-fitting swimsuit. Swim diapers are required for younger children or any child who is not yet toilet-trained. Water shoes are recommended for traction and safety. A towel, change of clothes, and any preferred comfort items (like goggles) are helpful.
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How do I know if my insurance covers aquatic therapy?Insurance coverage can vary by plan. Our administrative team will help you verify your benefits, check eligibility, and handle authorizations. We're happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions along the way.
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Is aquatic therapy safe for children?Yes. Safety is a top priority. Sessions are conducted one-on-one with a licensed pediatric therapist trained in aquatic therapy techniques. All pool environments are monitored, and therapists ensure your child’s comfort throughout the session.
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Does insurance cover pediatric physical therapy?We accept several insurance plans, including Arkansas Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Tricare, and CareSource - PASSE. Contact us to verify your benefits and coverage.
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What is pediatric physical therapy?Pediatric physical therapy helps children improve strength, balance, coordination, and motor skills needed for everyday activities like walking, running, climbing stairs, and playing.
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What conditions or concerns can pediatric physical therapy help with?Physical therapy can support children with developmental delays, injuries, balance issues, muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, and neurological conditions like cerebral palsy
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How do I know if my child needs physical therapy?If your child struggles with movement, balance, coordination, or isn’t hitting gross motor milestones (like crawling, walking, or jumping), a physical therapy evaluation can help determine if support is needed.
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Do you offer in-home physical therapy?Yes! Ray of Sunshine Pediatric Therapy offers mobile physical therapy services in Fort Smith and the River Valley. We also offer sessions in-office, at schools, daycares, and other community locations.
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What does a physical therapy session look like?Sessions are play-based and individualized. Therapists use age-appropriate activities and exercises to help children build strength, flexibility, and coordination while having fun.
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What insurance plans do you accept?We accept Arkansas Medicaid (AR Kids A&B, SSI, TEFRA, CHIP), Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Tricare, and CareSource – PASSE.
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How often does my child need speech therapy?Frequency depends on your child’s unique needs. Most children attend 1–2 sessions per week and are reassessed regularly for progress.
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What happens during a speech therapy session?Sessions are play-based and tailored to your child’s age and needs. Therapists work on goals like vocabulary, articulation, social communication, and feeding skills.
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When should I be concerned about my child's speech development?If your toddler isn’t saying simple words by 18 months or isn’t combining words by age 2, it may be helpful to consult a pediatric speech therapist.
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Do you offer in-home or mobile speech therapy?Yes! We offer both mobile and in-clinic sessions across Fort Smith and the River Valley, making therapy more convenient for your family.
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What is pediatric speech therapy?Pediatric speech therapy helps children improve their communication skills, including speaking, understanding language, and using non-verbal cues.
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How do I schedule my child’s first session?Getting started is easy! Simply contact us to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your child’s needs and help you choose the most convenient therapy option, whether at home, in-school, or in our office. Email is office@rayofsunshinetherapy.com and our phone number is 479-322-0546
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What should I expect during my child’s therapy sessions?Our therapists use a child-led approach to make therapy engaging and comfortable for your child. Each session is tailored to their unique needs, whether it’s helping them develop motor skills, improve communication, or overcome specific challenges.
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How do I know if mobile therapy is available in my area?We provide therapy services up to an hour and a half travel distance from Fort Smith. We service the River Valley, and surrounding areas. You can check our service areas on our website or contact us directly to see if we travel to your location. heather@rayofsunshinetherapy.com 479-719-7255
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Do you accept insurance?Yes, our mobile clinic accepts a variety of insurance plans, including: Arkansas Medicaid (AR kids A&B, SSI, TEFRA, Chip, etc.) Blue Cross Blue Shield (all states) United Healthcare Tricare (select, for life, prime, plus) Oklahoma Medicaid (Humana, Aetna, and OK Complete) Aetna Humana PASSE (Care Source, Empower, and AR Total Care)
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What types of therapy do you offer?We specialize in Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), and Speech Therapy (ST). Our personalized therapy plans help your child develop essential life skills, improve communication, and build independence.
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What if I don't have insurance?Private Pay is available at $95/hour
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Where can my child receive therapy?We offer flexible therapy options! Your child can receive therapy in the comfort of your home, at their school or daycare, in a public space (such as a library or coffee shop), or at our Fort Smith, AR office.
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