Carol "Bridget" Baker, OTR/L

I am an occupational therapist at the Perlman Center at Cincinnati Children's, where I help individuals with cerebral palsy and other neuromotor diagnoses participate more fully in everyday life. For more than 35 years, I have specialized in pediatric occupational therapy, with a particular focus on children who have limited use of their bodies and voices. I work closely with families to identify creative solutions that support communication, play, learning and independence through adapted equipment, computer access, assistive technology and individualized therapy strategies. 

A major area of my work is helping children access augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). I partner closely with speech-language pathologists to find the best communication solutions for children whose vision, coordination, movement or muscle tone make typical communication difficult. Whether I am helping a child access a communication device, participate in play or engage with technology, my goal is to ensure every child has meaningful opportunities to connect with the world around them. 

I also created the Play for All adapted play program, which helps families select and set up toys that support quality participation for children with a wide range of physical abilities. I believe every child has the right to play, and I am passionate about helping families find practical ways to bring joy, engagement and inclusion into everyday life. 

I have always been drawn to helping others, and occupational therapy felt like the perfect way to combine my creativity and logic to support children and families facing unique challenges. Throughout my career, I have found tremendous fulfillment in empowering children and giving families the tools and confidence they need to support their child's growth and success. 
 
Outside of work, I love staying active by playing volleyball in competitive leagues and tournaments, both on the sand and the hard court. I’ve recently started competing in the National Senior Games, which has been a wonderful way to meet people from all over and share our love of the game. I also enjoy hiking, bootcamp classes, and hunting for treasures at thrift stores—always on the lookout for new ideas and materials to adapt toys for my patients.