Sequencing

 What is it? “Performing steps in an effective or logical order with an absence of (1) randomness or lack of logic in the ordering and (2) inappropriate repetition of steps” (AOTA, 2014, p. S25).  

 Why is it important? Sequencing is a skill necessary for occupations throughout the lifetime such as: 

• Bathing/showering (Turning on showeràwashingàrinsingà turning off shower) 
• Toileting (doffing clothingàtoiletingàtoilet hygieneàflushingàwashing hands) 
• Dressing (undergarments before pants/shirt, socks before shoes, clothes before jacket, etc) 
• Swallowing/eating (chewing before swallowing) 
• Feeding (using appropriate utensilsà cut or arrange foodà bring to mouth) 
• Academic performance (proper sequence of school routines/tasks) 
• Grooming (proper steps of brushing teeth, etc.) 
• Driving (buckle seatbeltàchecking mirrorsàstarting caràdriving) 
• Meal preparation (washing foodsàcuttingàcooking) 
• Job performance 
• Play and leisure activities 

5 activities to try at home: 

1. Building a sandwich. 

Tip: Either use real ingredients or you can make pretend sandwich parts out of felt/paper. See if your child can properly sequence the steps (First you need bread, then…). 

2. Playing Simon says using “First..., then...” 

Tip: “Simon says first touch your nose and then jump on one foot” and see if your child can follow the directions correctly! 

3. Baking cookies together. 

Tip: Pick out a favorite recipe and follow the steps together! 

4. Sorting pictures of your day together. 

Tip: Print 3-5 pictures of your fun day spent together, and have your child sort the pictures in chronological order. 

References 

American Occupational Therapy Association. (2014). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process (3rd ed.). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 68(Suppl. 1), S1-S48.