Origami has numerous advantages as an occupational therapy tool. First and foremost, folding can help develop fine motor skills, visual perceptual, and sensory skills. To start, the folder must see where to move the paper, then carefully maneuver the paper into that position, and finally they must make a crease. The alignment requires precise fine motor skills in addition to acute perception. These activities can be varied to match the ability level of the folder. Most of the models on this site are on the easier side, but there are many more models online.
Beyond physical skills, origami also builds self-confidence through the pride folders have after completing a model. In addition to working on self-confidence, origami improves cognitive skills. Folders must be able to follow directions and concentrate, while trying to remember the steps for the model and persevering even when the folding is frustrating. Precision and dedication are central to origami, so they are continually being addressed while folding. Source: origamiusa.org/thefold/article/editorial-origami-and-occupational-therapy |