What areas are addressed by school-based OT?
School-based OTs work with student's on their daily occupations of being a student. This can include fine motor skills (handwriting, cutting, coloring, grasp, manipulation, etc.), visual-motor, life skills, assistive technology, and regulation.
What areas are addressed by a school-based PT?
School-based PTs focus on a student's participation in school by addressing balance, coordination, mobility, posture, and the overall ability to move and participate within the academic environment.
Who can receive school-based OT and PT services?
Students with an IEP or 504 plan. Without an IEP or 504 plan, a student cannot receive OT or PT in the schools.
If my child receives outside OT/PT, does that mean they will get school-based OT/PT?
Not exactly. In school-based OT and PT there must be a functional impact on a student's education or educational environment. To receive school-based OT and PT there must be a disability determined by an evaluation and qualifying for an IEP through one of the thirteen IDEA categories.
I have OT/PT concerns about a student but they don't have an IEP, what should I do?
You can consult with your school's OT or PT to ask for tiered interventions. Here the OT and/or PT can provide general recommendations or environmental modifications to support a student's academic success. It is important to not state the student's name as they are not on an OT/PT's caseload.
What is the process to start school-based OT or PT?
The process starts with a referral by a teacher, parent, or adult with reasonable concerns for a disability. After this, a formal evaluation will be initiated.
Where do school-based OT and PT services take place?
It is best practice for school-based services to be provided in a student's least restrictive environment (LRE). A LRE may include the classroom, cafeteria, specials classes, playground/outside, hallways, or resource room.
How are goals and amount of services decided?
Goals and service times are established on an individual basis at the IEP meeting with full collaboration between all team members. Collaborative goals are best practice.