Occupational therapy aids an individual in strengthening developmental or physical skills as well as coordination. Also abbreviated as "OT," occupational therapy can focus on the use of fine motor skills (using hands and fingers), gross motor skills (coordinating the whole body in an activity like bike riding or even crawling), and life skills like dressing, eating, and handwriting.
According to the American Occupational Therapy Association, "Practitioners must complete supervised clinical internships in a variety of health care settings, and pass a national examination. Most states also regulate occupational therapy practice." There are six different specializations for OTs: Some work with children, some with seniors, the mentally challenged, work and industry, health and wellness (which is a focus of all occupational therapy to some degree), and rehabilitation from injury.
Special needs kids obviously require an OT with a specialization in working with children. An OT session for a child with a developmental delay might look very different from one child to the next, or one therapist to the next. It might take place in a special gym with swings, climbing equipment, padded floors and trampolines -- or it might take place at school, in the classroom, with a focus on handwriting development.
Tallahassee special needs kids can qualify for occupational therapy provided by the school, after an evaluation, but it must be indicated on the child's Individual Education Plan (IEP). A school OT can be a very helpful member of the IEP team. Receiving occupational therapy has no effect on a child's ability to qualify for other services such as speech therapy. But occupational therapy in the school must be focused on supporting skills that support success in the child's education.
An occupational therapist can also help parents and teachers creative a supportive environment for a special needs child. OTs can recommend and use adaptive equipment. This might include special seating, weighted vests or blankets, or any number of other devices designed to make home and school life easier.
Next: Part 2 - Paying for occupational therapy
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