What Do Occupational Therapists Do in Schools?
When most people think of occupational therapy, they picture recovery from injury or rehabilitation in a hospital or clinic setting. But occupational therapists (OTs) also play a vital role in schools across the country, helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
But what exactly do occupational therapists do in a school setting? In this Soliant guide, learn about their impact on student success and why their role is so important in education.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do in Schools?
School-based occupational therapists work with students who struggle with the foundational skills needed for learning and participation in school activities. Whether a student needs long-term support or short-term skill-building, OTs support a wide range of students, including those with:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- ADHD or other attention challenges
- Developmental delays
- Sensory processing disorders
- Learning disabilities
- Physical impairments
- Emotional or behavioral challenges
Some of the most common areas that school OTs address include:
- Fine Motor Skills: Help improve students’ ability to write, cut with scissors, use classroom tools, and perform other tasks requiring hand-eye coordination.
- Gross Motor Skills: Support movement-related activities like walking in line, navigating stairs, or participating in physical education classes.
- Sensory Processing: Help students who are overstimulated or under-stimulated regulate their attention, behavior, and engagement in class.
- Daily Living Skills: Teach students how to independently manage essential tasks like tying their shoes or zipping up a jacket.
- Executive Functioning: Help students better stay on task, stay organized, and follow instructions.
How Occupational Therapists Work in Schools
School-based OTs are part of a multidisciplinary team that may include teachers, special education staff, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, and other school professionals. Their work typically falls into three main categories:
- Direct Services: Work one-on-one or in small groups with students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan. These sessions focus on specific goals tailored to the student’s unique needs.
- Consultation and Collaboration: Collaborate with teachers and support staff to recommend strategies, tools, or classroom accommodations, such as pencil grips or visual schedules.
- Environmental Adaptations: Assess environments, like a classroom setup, and recommend changes to support student accessibility and comfort, such as adjusting desk heights or creating calming spaces.
Make a Difference as a School-Based OT
Occupational therapy in schools is about helping students participate fully in their education, and school OTs create those inclusive learning environments where every student has the chance to thrive.
If you’re an occupational therapist with a passion for working with children and are looking for a rewarding opportunity in education, we can help you take the next step in your career.
Soliant connects talented OTs with school-based roles across the country, including flexible travel assignments for OTs and teletherapy occupational therapy roles. Ready to make a difference? Explore school occupational therapist opportunities with Soliant today!
