Occupational therapy helps Faroese schoolchildren thrive

Occupational therapy could play a greater role in supporting Faroese schoolchildren who struggle with anxiety and discomfort in school, according to two specialists in the field.

Carla Mikkelsen and Olga Skorastein, occupational therapists at Ergoblómin—a children’s occupational therapy centre in Klaksvík—say they see daily how the practice helps students who feel out of place in school, Kringvarp Føroya reports.

In a recent blog post, the therapists highlighted the growing challenges children face, including overstimulated nervous systems that make it difficult to concentrate, sit still, or quiet their thoughts. “The nervous systems of far too many children are working overtime,” Mikkelsen said. Skorastein, who returned to the field after a six-year break, noted a clear increase in children with sensory processing difficulties.

The causes are complex, the therapists explain, but a key factor is the overwhelming pace of modern daily life. “Children need space to connect with themselves,” Mikkelsen said.

Both therapists discussed their work on a morning radio programme, emphasising how occupational therapy can help students feel more comfortable and engaged in school.