University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

Every year, pediatric occupational therapists treat millions of developmentally-delayed children in the United States who do not demonstrate age appropriate behaviors and abilities. Children with developmental delays often suffer from cognitive, physical, communicative, social, and adaptive setbacks caused by various genetic and environmental factors. The role of a pediatric occupational therapist includes observing, diagnosing, and developing a plan of action to help these children.

In her new book, Frames of Reference for Pediatric Occupational Therapy 3rd Edition, Dr. Paula Kramer, chair of University of the Sciences’ Occupational Therapy Department, provides a simple, easy-to-read foundation of theory and practical tools that serve as the basis of pediatric occupational therapy practice.

Along with Dr. Jim Hinojosa, professor of occupational therapy at the NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, Dr. Kramer wrote the third edition of the theory-based textbook in response to student and expert feedback. Intended primarily for entry-level students, the text focuses on frames of reference, which offer effective blueprints for applying theoretical information to help pediatric clients lead richer, fuller lives.

“Jim and I are very proud of this book because it contains a lot of new information with international contributors,” said Dr. Kramer. “This information will support and promote new theory-based practice of pediatric occupational therapy.”

In writing the text, Dr. Kramer and Dr. Hinojosa collaborated with more than 20 experts in occupational therapy from across the U.S., covering areas such as neuro-developmental treatment, sensory integration, interventions for social participation, handwriting, the biomechanical approach to seating and positioning of children with severe motor disorders, and more.

Dr. Charlotte Brasic Royeen, dean of allied health at Doisy College of Health Sciences, praised the book, stating “If only all books in occupational therapy were of this bent! The theory-driven approach of Kramer and Hinojosa takes us far beyond the technical, and firmly plants us in the realm of professional practice.”

Frames of Reference for Pediatric Occupational Therapy is the second-best selling pediatric textbook in occupational therapy and is used internationally in places such as Ireland, England, Holland, and Australia. The text is ideal for students entering the professional practice, for post professional student use in courses that are designed for the instruction of pediatric evaluation, intervention, and theories, and for occupational therapists who want to enhance the use of theory in their practice.