Occupational Performance Coaching in Children: A Scoping Review

This scoping review aimed to map and synthesize existing evidence on Occupational Performance Coaching (OPC) for children with neurodevelopmental conditions. The review focused on describing intervention characteristics, evaluating parent and child outcomes, and identifying diagnostic and cultural patterns in effectiveness.

Using Arksey and O'Malley's framework with PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a search of seven databases identified empirical studies of OPC in children aged 1-18. Inclusion criteria targeted interventions grounded in the OPC model with parent- or child-focused occupational outcomes. Intervention parameters, outcome domains, and cultural adaptations were extracted and synthesized narratively.

Twelve studies involving children with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and specific learning disorder were included. Participants ranged in age from 20 months to 14 years. OPC interventions lasted 3-16 sessions, delivered in-person, telehealth, or hybrid formats, with high cultural adaptability. All studies reported improvements in child occupational performance and goal attainment. Parent outcomes included gains in self-efficacy, reduced stress, and increased satisfaction. Cultural tailoring and caregiver engagement emerged as important factors associated with intervention effectiveness.

OPC is a flexible, culturally adaptable, and effective caregiver-mediated intervention for enhancing occupational outcomes in children with diverse neurodevelopmental conditions. The findings underscore OPC's potential as a cornerstone of family-centered occupational therapy. Future research should explore mechanisms of change, long-term effects, and strategies for broader implementation.