Individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 yrs) may be hypersensitive to sounds, textures, or movements. They may also need help understanding social cues or communicating effectively, which makes it hard for them to learn.
How School Occupational Therapists Help
School occupational therapists (OTs) work in schools to help individuals become more active and self-reliant learners. This work extends beyond academic participation into play, social interactions, self-care skills, and transition skills like planning for the future. School-based OTs concentrate on helping students navigate and succeed within the school setting; in the classroom, hallway, cafeteria, playground, or even the bus ride to and from school.
What Skills Does a School-Based Occupational Therapist Work With?
School-based OTs support students’ ability to engage and excel in school and help develop a broad range of skills:Â
- Fine Motor Skills: Fine motor skills are crucial for many classroom activities, from using a pencil to working with small objects.Â
- Sensory Processing: Some individuals struggle to process sensory information effectively, affecting their focus, behavior, and learning. OTs help these individuals regulate their sensory input.Â
- Visual Motor and Visual Perceptual Skills: These skills are essential for tasks like reading and writing, where visual information must be interpreted and acted upon.
- Self-Care Skills: Independence in self-care tasks, such as dressing, feeding, and hygiene, is crucial for an individual’s overall development and self-esteem.Â
- Social Skills: Effective interaction with others makes for a positive school experience and life beyond school.Â
- Cognitive Skills and Executive Functioning: These include memory, attention, problem-solving, and organizational skills, which are all necessary skills for academic success.
About OPTIMISE
OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years).Â
The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams work with many partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work also includes working with all levels of education to accomplish this goal.
OPTIMISE promotes ten professions within Michigan’s special education field, their funding options, and steps to jumpstart a career in special education.Â
Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.
Go to: OPTIMISE.education
