Occupational Therapy
In the school setting, occupational therapy practitioners focus on academics, play and leisure, social participation, self-care skills (ADLs or Activities of Daily Living), and transition/work skills (AOTA 2022). Occupational therapists use their expertise to support a student’s ability to perform grade-level fine motor, visual motor, and/or sensory-motor skills that are related to academic and functional performance. The occupation of a student includes everyday skills such as managing school materials (ex: pencil, scissors, locker, lunch items), ability to complete paper/pencil tasks, and self-regulation in relation to the educational setting. Occupational therapists play a critical role in training parents, other staff members (teachers, paraeducators, support staff, administrators) and caregivers regarding educating students with diverse learning needs.
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