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Occupational Therapy Month

This Occupational Therapy Month, join us to recognize and celebrate the amazing work of occupational therapists in improving lives!

Thursday

1–30

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of April

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYHealthcare

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to recognize the hard work of occupational therapists and commemorate Occupational Therapy Month on April 1! This month is dedicated to highlighting the important role that occupational therapists play in helping people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds achieve their goals. Occupational therapy has been around for centuries but only formally became an established profession in 1920. Since then, it has evolved into a highly specialized field with practitioners working in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and more. So let's celebrate this month by raising awareness about the power of occupational therapy and showing our appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to helping others!

TIMELINE

Occupational Therapy Month Timeline

Founding of AOTA

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) was established, providing a foundation for occupational therapy as a profession.

Occupational Therapy Profession Recognition

Occupational therapy formally became an established profession in the United States.

World War II Impact

In response to World War II, occupational therapy expanded its focus to help rehabilitate war veterans.

Celebrating OT Month

The AOTA officially recognized April as Occupational Therapy Month to raise awareness and recognize professionals in the field.

Expanded Scope of Practice

The occupational therapy field expanded to cover mental and physical health, habilitation, rehabilitation, prevention, health maintenance, and more.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Occupational Therapy Month

Learn about Occupational Therapy

Take some time to learn about the history and practice of occupational therapy. Read articles or watch videos about how occupational therapists help people reach their goals and improve their quality of life.

Share your experiences

If you or a loved one have benefited from occupational therapy, consider sharing your story with others. Write a blog post, create a video, or talk to friends, family, and colleagues about the positive impact occupational therapy has had on you.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with an OT organization

Help out with a local or national organization that promotes occupational therapy. You can volunteer your time or donate money to these organizations in order to help spread awareness and provide resources for those who need it.

ATTEND

Attend an OT event

Look for local events related to occupational therapy. Many cities have conferences and seminars that are open to the public where you can learn more about the profession and meet practitioners and other professionals in the field.

SPREAD

Spread the word

Share your favorite resources or articles about occupational therapy with your friends, family, and colleagues. Talk about how it can help people and encourage them to learn more about it.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Occupational Therapy Month is Important

Occupational therapy promotes socialization and engagement

In addition to providing physical benefits, occupational therapy encourages socialization, engagement, and communication. Through the use of purposeful activities, occupational therapy is meant to give individuals the opportunity to interact with their peers as well as form meaningful connections with others in order to improve overall wellbeing.

Occupational therapy helps people live more independently

Occupational therapists help persons with disabilities and other conditions to develop, maintain, and improve their ability to perform activities of daily life. With the help of occupational therapy, many individuals are able to live more independent lives and reach their fullest potential.

Occupational therapy improves physical and mental health

Occupational therapy can play an important role in improving physical and mental health. The activities used in occupational therapy sessions can help strengthen muscles, increase range of motion, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. These activities can also help build self-confidence and self-esteem.

Related holidays

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It's time to recognize and appreciate the hardworking physiotherapists who keep our bodies moving! Join us in celebrating National Physiotherapy Month.

National Therapeutic Recreation Month

Get ready to relax and recharge during National Therapeutic Recreation Month - join in on activities like yoga, hiking, and art therapy for a month of self-care!

National Social Work Month

An appreciation day in March recognizing social workers for helping individuals, families, and communities navigate challenges.

National Professional Social Worker’s Month

An appreciation day in March recognizing professional social workers for supporting individuals and communities and advocating for justice.

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