Occupational Therapy Services

Occupational therapy is considered a related service under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This means it’s provided when needed to help a child benefit from their specially designed instruction. Occupational therapy supports students in reaching their learning and participation goals. School-based occupational therapy helps students build the skills they need to succeed in everyday school activities. 

Occupational therapists (OTs) may work directly with students or indirectly by coaching teachers and suggesting classroom adaptations. The goal is to help each child access their education as independently and effectively as possible.

• Fine motor skills (like handwriting or using scissors)

• Sensory processing

• Self-care tasks related to school (like managing materials or organizing work)

• Classroom participation

Range of Services: 

Direct Services

• Handwriting and visual-motor integration 

• Sensory regulation and attention 

• Activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, feeding) 

• Functional mobility and positioning 

Consultation Services

• Offer training on sensory processing, fine motor development, and classroom accommodations 

• Recommend adaptive tools and strategies to support student participation 

• Modify classroom materials and environments for accessibility 

• Collaborate on behavior and engagement strategies linked to sensory needs 

Resources:

Fine Motor Activities/Ideas in the Home

https://www.therakids.org/media/pdf/finemotoractivitiesforhome.pdf

https://www.growinghandsonkids.com/

Supporting and Understanding Sensory Needs

https://www.twentyonesenses.org/about-the-senses/