Self-Care

What is self-care? Self-care also called basic activities of daily living is one of the primary areas that occupational therapist address and includes eating, dressing, grooming, bathing, and toileting. Occupational therapists work collaboratively with teachers and parents to be sure that students are able to manage their self-care needs in the school setting and at home. In addition to self-care, occupational therapist also help students with instrumental activities of daily living (IADL’s). IADL’s include preparing meals, managing money, shopping for groceries or personal items, performing light or heavy housework, doing laundry, using a telephone, transportation, and medication management. In the weeks ahead, through the Occupational Therapy Classroom, the occupational therapy department will provide you with resources to improve your child’s independence with self-care and instrumental activities of daily living.