What is Ideational Praxis and Why Does It Matter?
What is Ideational Praxis?
Ideational praxis refers to the ability to conceptualize and plan purposeful movement—it’s about generating ideas on how to interact with objects or complete tasks, rather than simply executing movements. This skill is foundational in play, daily activities, social engagement, and learning. Introduced in our last newsletter, this aspect of praxis has been on my mind lately as I work with my clients to develop their abilities and support their functional goals.
Signs of Developed Ideational Praxis Abilities
Individuals with well-developed ideational praxis can:
Generate multiple ways to use a toy or object
Determine “what to do” with a novel material or set up
Problem-solve and adapt to situations - such as choosing an alternative ball for a game or finding a way to prop open a door
Share creative ideas in social and work settings
Apply flexible thinking to adapt in dynamic environments—whether at work, during travel, or in play
Signs of Ideational Praxis Differences
Individuals who may need additional support in this area might:
Prefer familiar activities or play activities
Struggle to stay engaged when playing or working independently
Use limited descriptor language for objects, relying on phrases like “this” or “that” instead of specific names
Find it difficult to adjust when things don’t go as planned
Prefer predictable experiences and routines
Benefit from others coming up with ideas and plans
Experience dysregulation when in situations that require flexibility and adaptability
Ways Ideational Praxis is Supported
Occupational therapy practitioners play a key role in assessing and strengthening ideational praxis through targeted interventions. Occupational therapists with specialized training in sensory integration may use a variety of strategies, such as:
Educating individuals, families, and team members about ideational praxis and its impact on function
Adapting tasks to match an individual’s abilities, focusing on follow-through rather than the initial planning
Expanding ideational praxis abilities through targeted and meaningful activities, including:
- Exploring “What are different ways to use this material?”
- Exploring different ways to complete a similar action - “What are different things we can knock down?”
- Drawing images and writing out activity steps
Providing a variety of approaches ensures that individuals can participate successfully and meaningfully in their daily routines and interactions.
A Real Life Example - Supporting Ideational Praxis in Community-Based Occupational Therapy
Recently, I’ve been focusing on ideational praxis with some of my pediatric clients to help expand their play skills at home and in play centers. One toddler I work with has shown a strong interest in plastic cups, so we’ve explored them in different ways—knocking them down, hiding and finding them, and even using them as hats for stuffed animals.
How has his ideational praxis growth translated outside our sessions? He’s able to engage in play for longer periods with caregivers and on his own, because he now has more ideas for interacting with his toys.