How do Children Qualify for Occupational Therapy in School?
In order to qualify for school-based occupational therapy services, a student must first be identified as a child with a disability that impacts the achievement of academic skills at the same rate as peers. This can include, but is not limited to: autism, learning disability, cognitive disability, or emotional behavioral disability. Once it is determined that the child has a disability and needs special education, occupational therapy can be added as a related service to assist the child to benefit from special education. Depending upon the child, occupational therapists will often conduct formal assessments and observe the child's classroom function to determine eligibility. Therapy eligibility is determined by an IEP team which is made up of parent(s), teachers, and therapists. Children receive O.T. in school only if they need it to function in the educational setting.
For more information please visit the following link:
http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/dpi/dlsea/een/occ_ther.html
10/16/2007 jbc