IRPS

Occupational therapy is a part of the multi-disciplinary educational team in the Meridian School district, and I work alongside teachers, special education staff, speech therapy staff, counselors and psychologists to help students to be successful in their school environment. This could mean working with students directly or providing recommendations and training to help a student in the classroom or with specific school activities.

Occupational therapy typically assists with sensory-motor skill development within the school setting, and intervention strategies are individualized for each student. Areas of focus could include;

• fine motor skills
• gross motor skills
• two-sided coordination skills
• motor planning and organization of movement
• sensory regulation and management skills
• self care skills for school needs

I believe that in order to have the most impact, it is important to involve team members, including families, in the strategies and activities used within occupational therapy. Each of us will bring a different focus and emphasis, and so working together fosters a holistic approach to ensure an optimal school experience for the student. Also, I am happy to provide resources and ideas for activities at home to help with skill development for the students I work with. Please feel free to stop by if you have any questions.

Below are some web sites that have more information, activities and ideas;

• www.aota.org   American OT Association
• www.sinetwork.org Information and resources on sensory processing disorders
• www.hwtears.com Handwriting Without Tears program and information
• www.do2learn.org Activity ideas and resources
• www.kidconcoctions.com Activity ideas – including 'concoction of the month'!
• www.sensoryint.com Sensory Integration International