Meet Joanna Hawkins
Lead Occupational Therapist, NZROT
Joanna has worked locally and internationally in paediatric occupational therapy since 1995, with over 30 years of experience helping children build the physical skills they need to learn.
Early recognition gives children the best chance
Joanna has seen the difficulties children face when the physical skills they need as a foundation are absent or delayed. Sitting still, holding a pencil, using scissors and joining in with other children all rest on those skills.
She also sees how early recognition changes things. When a gap is spotted before school starts, children get the best chance to engage and excel in their learning.
“I enjoy supporting children to develop then build on their foundational skills, equipping and enabling them to engage in their everyday tasks.”Joanna Hawkins
How Joanna works with families
Practical tools to use at home
You leave each session with practical tools and the confidence to keep nurturing your child's development at home.
Fun and supportive
Sessions are fun and hands-on. Parents learn key principles and techniques, then practise them with their child in a supportive environment.
Small groups, personal support
Workshop groups are limited to four families, so every child and parent gets Joanna's attention.
Starting from where your child is
An individual assessment shows where your child is at in their development and what their next steps are, whether you have a concern or just want peace of mind.
Nearly 25 years working with children, schools and families
Joanna qualified as an occupational therapist in 1990 and has worked mostly with children since 1995. That includes paediatric roles in England and, in Auckland, work with preschoolers at the Ministry of Health's Child Development Centre.
From 2000 to 2024 she worked with the Ministry of Education's Physical Disabilities Service in South Auckland, seeing children who were struggling to access the school curriculum because of physical difficulties. Assessments took place at school, usually with a physiotherapist and the child's parents there, and led to clear reports and programmes for teachers, teacher aides and families. Schools such as Pukekohe Hill School invited her in regularly.
She has also both given and received professional development within her team, and now offers it to other teams through RedE 4 CPD.
Qualifications and membership
- Registered occupational therapist (NZROT)
- Diploma of Occupational Therapy, 1990
- Member of Occupational Therapy New Zealand Whakaora Ngangahau Aotearoa (OTNZ-WNA)
“Her expertise in developing individualised treatment plans and her holistic approach to therapy have made a significant impact on the lives of countless children and their families.”
“She relates to children/staff/parents in a relaxed and calm manner that always puts people at ease.”
“Joanna is thorough and precise in her assessments of children but always in a way that they're often unaware that they're being assessed.”
Not sure where to start?
Get in touch with Joanna and tell her a little about your child. She can point you towards the right service.
Call Joanna on 027 777 5069
or email [email protected]