Occupational Therapy (OT) is a service provided by a qualified occupational therapist.  OT is a related service deemed necessary by the IEP/ARD committee when a child requires the unique expertise of an occupational therapist to make progress towards academic and/or functional goals in the special and/or general education program.  Related services in the school setting are "developmental, corrective and other supportive services as are required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education." (1)

Occupational Therapy practitioners have specific knowledge and expertise to support a student's ability to successfully participate in daily school routines or "occupations" throughout the day.  "Occupational therapy addresses the physical, cognitive, psychosocial and sensory components of performance.  In schools, occupational therapy practitioners focus on academics, play and leisure, social participation, self-careskills, and transition/work skills." (2)  The occupational therapist will collaborate with the student's parent/caregivers, teachers and educational team to identify areas of need and ensure skills are being developed and carried over in the least restrictive environment.

Due to Covid restrictions, the OT department is not taking student observers.  Contact information will be updated on this site once those restrictions have been lifted.  

Resources

https://www.theottoolbox.com/

https://www.missjaimeot.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDcd1H4c6W4LJMJ3VBJAxYw

https://www.aota.org/Practice/Children-Youth/School-based.aspx

1.  "Sec. 300.34 Related Services."  Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 2 May 2017, sites.ed.gov/idea/regs/b/a/300.34.

2.  American Occupational Therapy Association. (2016). Occupational Therapy's Role with School Settings (Fact Sheet).  Retrieved from https://www.aota.org/media/Corporate/Files/AboutOT/ProfessionalsWhatIsOT/CY/Fact-Sheets/School%20Settings%20fact%20sheet.pdf