By Beatrice Kimble, Director of Recruitment at Epic Special Education Staffing
Occupational Therapists (OTs) play a pivotal role in the education and development of students with special needs. Their expertise helps children overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. As we celebrate Occupational Therapist Month, it’s essential to recognize the invaluable contributions these professionals make to the field of special education.
Understanding the Importance of Occupational Therapist Month
Occupational therapy addresses the physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges that students with special needs encounter. OTs work with educators and families to create individualized plans that promote independence and enhance quality of life. From improving fine motor skills to facilitating sensory integration, their interventions foster academic achievement and social inclusion.
Occupational Therapist Month serves as a platform to honor the dedication and expertise of OTs in special education. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness about their vital role and advocate for the resources necessary to support their work effectively.
Recognizing the Impact of Occupational Therapists in Special Education
To truly grasp the impact occupational therapists have on special education students, let’s take a look at some quantifiable data, real-life success stories from our own OTs, and testimonials from parents.
Quantifiable Impact
There are several studies that support the effectiveness of occupational therapy in students. In one study (Dunn, 1990), the impact of OT interventions on students was observed over the period of one academic year. It was found that the students receiving the said interventions were able to achieve about 75% of the goals identified in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
In another study focusing on handwriting, it was found that students who had received intervention demonstrated over 90% legibility at the end of the school year. Compared to the start of the school year, legibility had increased by 14.2% on average.
Stories of Success
To understand the real-life implications of these studies, we interviewed Amy B., a school contract occupational therapist working under Epic Special Education Staffing. Amy shared with us her experiences as an OT, highlighting the improvements she’s seen in students, particularly in their handwriting and communication skills.
According to Amy, the adaptation of using consequential start-stop adaptive paper, where each letter fits into a block, has proven to be a game-changer for middle school students struggling with focus and organization. For example, an 11-year-old 4th-grade student initially faced challenges with overwhelming stimuli. Introducing the start-stop adaptive paper allowed him to slow down and focus on one detail at a time, reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Using light-colored point markers and incorporating his language into the intervention, Amy guided the student through tracing letters and creating sentences. This method not only improved his focus but also led to more uniform letter formation.
The intervention progressed to include ideation practice, where he was given the start of a sentence to complete. Through visual assistance, his letters remained legible, even as the support gradually faded.
Parent Testimonials
It was not only Amy who noticed significant improvements in her students. One parent shared with us their son’s amazing journey. When he first started therapy a year ago, their son was nonverbal and only communicated through clicking sounds. His communication skills were limited, and his attempts at writing resembled scribbles more than letters.
Over the past year of therapy, the parents witnessed their son’s incredible growth. According to them, Amy’s guidance and support had helped their son make remarkable strides. Now, he is able to write with emerging legibility, a skill his parents never thought possible. And perhaps even more importantly, their son has been acquiring language.
When Amy spoke to us about her experiences as a school-based occupational therapist and heard the testimonial from the parents, she was reminded of why she loves what she does. Having the opportunity to make a positive difference in students’ lives is often what drives occupational therapists to continue on this fulfilling path.
Celebrating Occupational Therapist Month
This month, we recognize the essential role OTs play in improving the quality of life for countless individuals. It’s a time to express gratitude for their dedication and to raise awareness about the transformative power of occupational therapy in promoting independence and well-being. Here are some ways we can honor occupational therapists this month.
Professional Development Opportunities
Continued learning is crucial for occupational therapists to stay updated with the latest research and techniques. Employers are encouraged to provide avenues for professional development through online courses, peer collaboration, and mentorship programs. Investing in ongoing education ensures that OTs can deliver high-quality services to students with special needs.
Acknowledging the Contributions of Occupational Therapists
It’s essential to acknowledge the significant contributions that OTs make to the lives of students with special needs. Whether it’s hosting a party for OTs or writing a heartfelt ‘thank you’ note, expressing appreciation goes a long way in recognizing their tireless efforts. Additionally, highlighting their achievements in newsletters or on social media platforms can further amplify their impact and inspire others to support their crucial work.
Advocacy and Awareness Initiatives
Occupational Therapist Month also serves as a platform for advocacy and awareness initiatives. By highlighting the importance of occupational therapy in special education, advocates can garner support for positive change within the field. Raising awareness about the role of OTs fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment for students with special needs.
Occupational Therapist Month 2024: Continuing the Legacy of Empowerment
As Occupational Therapist Month comes to a close, let’s continue celebrating the invaluable contributions of OTs in special education. Their dedication empowers students with special needs to thrive academically and socially. Let’s express gratitude, advocate for resources, and amplify awareness to support their crucial work.
To all occupational therapists, Epic Special Education Staffing wishes you a happy Occupational Therapist Month! We thank you for all that you do. May you continue to be shining beacons for your students!
Searching for an occupational therapy job that will give you greater purpose and meaning? Epic Special Education Staffing can help! At Epic Special Education Staffing, we work as a bridge to your next job, ensuring you find work that aligns with your lifestyle and helps you feel fulfilled, all while providing unsurpassed care and support every step of the way! Join our team now!
About the Author
Bea Kimble, Director of Recruitment has celebrated 30 years in recruiting and talent management. She is passionate about helping people find fulfilling career opportunities, while simultaneously helping school districts and their needs. Bea credits her success in building meaningful relationships to help others manifest their highest potential. She is a lifelong learner who carefully analyzes market trends, identifying talent gaps and devising recruitment strategies. Bea is based in Orange County, CA and lives with her family and two dogs surrounded by her growing succulent collection.
