Occupational therapy (OT) is a vital part of early childhood special education, providing essential support to young children with disabilities or developmental delays. By addressing physical, cognitive, and sensory needs, OT helps children develop the skills they need to participate in learning and daily life.
The first step to becoming an educator who values and utilizes OT in early childhood education is an advanced degree program. Emporia State University’s online Master of Science (MS) in Early Childhood Unified (Birth-Grade 3) program prepares educators with the skills to collaborate effectively with occupational therapists (OTs) and other professionals to provide comprehensive support for young learners.
The Role of Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists work with children to develop the skills for daily living, play, and learning. In early childhood special education settings, OTs focus on a range of areas, including the following:
- Fine motor skills: Developing hand-eye coordination, pencil grasp, and other fine motor skills for activities like writing, drawing, and using utensils
- Gross motor skills: Improving balance, coordination, and strength to enhance participation in running, jumping, and climbing
- Sensory processing: Helping children regulate their sensory systems (touch, sight, sound, smell, and movement) to better respond to their environment
- Socio-emotional skills: Supporting the development of social skills, emotional regulation, and self-awareness
- Adaptive skills: Teaching daily living skills, such as dressing, eating, and using the toilet
Early Childhood Challenges and Benefits Addressed by OT
Many early childhood challenges can be addressed through OT intervention. The following are a few examples:
- Developmental delays: Children with developmental delays may struggle with motor skills, sensory processing, and cognitive development.
- Sensory processing disorder (SPD): Children with SPD may have difficulty processing sensory information, which leads to challenges in behavior, attention, and social interaction.
- Autism: OT can help children with autism improve motor skills, sensory processing, and social skills.
- Issues with fine motor skills: A child who struggles with everyday tasks like holding a pencil or buttoning a shirt can signal fine motor skill difficulties.
Educators who understand the value of OTs can work with these professionals to facilitate the best student outcomes. Occupational therapy services in schools offer numerous benefits:
- Developing important life skills: OTs can help schools provide special needs students with the skills they need to achieve independence in school and life.
- Encouraging inclusion: By addressing specific needs, OT services promote inclusivity and equity.
- Enhancing education quality: By positively impacting each student’s academic success, OT can elevate the quality of education for the entire school.
- Improving attendance: OT services can improve attendance by addressing physical and sensory challenges that may prevent a student’s ability to participate.
- Using innovative practices: OTs can introduce new methodologies, technologies, and equipment to enhance the learning experience.
- Boosting focus and participation: OT can help students improve their focus, attention, and participation in class through calming exercises and visual skill development.
- Promoting positive behavior: OT can help students develop self-regulation skills and manage emotions for a more positive classroom environment.
Collaborative Efforts in Occupational Therapy
Effective early intervention requires collaboration with various professionals, including teachers, therapists, and families. By working together, these professionals can provide comprehensive support for young children with special needs.
Emporia State University’s online MS in Early Childhood Unified (Birth-Grade 3) program prepares educators to collaborate with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, and special education teachers to create inclusive classrooms. The Collaborating with Families, Schools, Service Agencies, and Community Partners course focuses on building strong partnerships to support young children’s development. It emphasizes effective communication, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative problem-solving.
The Clinical Experience: Inclusive Early Childhood Home Based (Birth to 3 years) course offers hands-on experience working with families of young children with disabilities or developmental delays. Students learn to develop individualized plans, select appropriate materials, incorporate effective teaching strategies, and work as part of a multidisciplinary team. Through collaboration with educators and families, OTs can create inclusive and supportive learning environments that promote the development of all children.
Learn more about Emporia State University’s online MS in Early Childhood Unified (Birth-Grade 3) program.
