Occupational therapy in school, or OT, helps a child build the everyday skills they need to take part in learning and school life. An occupational therapist works on things like handwriting and fine-motor control, using scissors and utensils, managing sensory needs, and self-care tasks such as dressing or opening a lunch container. In a school setting, the focus stays on skills that affect a child's access to education.
OT is a related service, which means it is provided when a child needs it to benefit from their special education, and it belongs on the IEP with clear frequency and setting. School-based OT is not the same as clinical therapy a child might receive in a hospital or private clinic; the school version targets educational participation specifically. Some children receive both, aimed at different goals.
If your child struggles with tasks like writing legibly, holding tools, or coping with a loud, busy classroom, ask whether an OT evaluation is warranted. When OT is on the plan, look for concrete goals and check that skills are being carried over into the classroom, not just practiced in a therapy room. The point is progress your child can use during the actual school day.
General information and document preparation — not legal advice.