As a pediatric OT, you’ve been there: you're elbow-deep in paperwork, your coffee’s gone cold, and you’re still trying to decode that kindergarten teacher’s note about a child who "just can’t sit still."

But in the rush to complete evaluations, even the most seasoned OTs can fall into common traps. Here are 10 mistakes many of us make—and how to sidestep them with confidence.

The phrase “evidence-based practice” gets thrown around a lot—but what does it actually mean in pediatric OT evaluations?

At its core, evidence-based OT means using a combination of:

• Current best research

• Clinical expertise

• Client values and context

If your evaluation process involves sticky notes, three different binders, and at least one “WHERE did I put that?” moment... you’re not alone.

Let’s walk through a smarter workflow that will save your time and your sanity.