By conducting comprehensive school readiness assessments, occupational therapists play a vital role in helping schools support children's learning, social-emotional development, and overall well-being.
School readiness and assessments
School readiness assessments are crucial to identify children's strengths and challenges, ensuring a smooth transition to primary school. Occupational therapists (OTs) play a significant role in conducting these assessments.
Observations
OTs observe children in various settings, such as classrooms, playgrounds, or during activities.
Standardized assessments
OTs use standardized tools, like the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Skills (Beery VMI) or the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2).
Parent and teacher questionnaires
OTs gather information from parents and teachers to understand the child's behavior, strengths, and challenges.
Play-Based Assessments
OTs engage children in play activities to assess their cognitive, motor, and social-emotional skills.
Collaboration With Other Professionals
OTs work with other professionals, such as psychologists, speech therapists, or teachers, to gather a comprehensive understanding of the child's needs.
Assessment Reports
Comprehensive reports outlining the child's strengths, challenges, and recommendations for support.
Individualized Education Plans
OTs contribute to the development of IEPs, outlining specific goals and strategies for supporting the child's learning.
Classroom Accommodations & Modifications
OTs provide recommendations for adapting the classroom environment and instructional strategies to support the child's learning.
Staff Training & Support
OTs offer training and support to teachers and other staff members on strategies to support the child's learning and behavior.
Ongoing Monitoring & Progress Reports
OTs provide regular progress reports and ongoing monitoring to ensure the child's needs are being met and to make adjustments to the IEP as needed.
Developmental assessments
Evaluate cognitive, motor, social-emotional, and communication skills.
Academic readiness assessments
Assess foundational skills like literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving.
Sensory processing assessments
Identify potential sensory processing difficulties that may impact learning.
Fine motor and handwriting assessments
Evaluate hand function, finger dexterity, and handwriting skills.
Gross motor
assessments
Assess physical abilities like balance, coordination, and overall motor skills.