Occupational Therapy
School-Based Occupational Therapy
School-based occupational therapy (OT) is specially designed to enhance a student’s ability to actively engage and succeed within the educational setting. Provided as a related service under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), school-based OT supports students with disabilities by addressing barriers that may affect their access to and benefit from special education.
The role of occupational therapy in schools includes both direct and indirect services to support students across areas such as academics, motor skills, work habits, social participation, play, self-care, and transition skills. Direct OT services involve hands-on therapeutic activities that work to improve a student’s underlying physical, sensory, or cognitive skills, focusing on strengths to build confidence and engagement in school-related tasks. Indirect OT services encompass activities like observation, collaboration, and consultation with teachers, staff, and families to adapt tasks or modify the learning environment—removing barriers and promoting student participation. This holistic approach aims to provide each student with the tools and support they need to thrive in their educational journey.
Unlike clinical OT, which often takes place in medical or outpatient settings and addresses after-school functional and health-based goals, school-based OT specifically targets skills that directly impact a child’s success and independence within the school setting. Together, these services empower students to fully participate in the educational experiences that foster growth, confidence, and lifelong learning skills.
How to Contact Your Child’s School-Based Occupational Therapist
Each district provides OT services, though therapists may serve multiple schools. You can connect with a school-based OT by:
- Inquiring at your child’s school
- Asking your child’s teacher or special education coordinator for guidance
- Checking the school’s website for OT contacts
- Reaching out to the Lead OT for connection to the assigned therapist
- Contacting the district’s central office
For further information, please visit the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) website.