The OT Schoolhouse Podcast for School-Based OT Practitioners: Recent Episodes
Jayson Davies
Jayson Davies, OTR/L, from OTSchoolhouse.com dives into the areas of school-based Occupational Therapy most frequently discussed by therapists. Join Jayson and special guests in exploring new practice strategies and earn professional development for certification renewal.
What's really happening in school-based OT practice across the country? In this episode, Jayson sits down with Hannah Smiles, OTD, OTR/L, to unpack findings from a national survey of 331 school-based occupational therapists across 41 states, published in the open-access Open Journal of Occupational Therapy.
Hannah and her research team examined the entire OT process — from referral through intervention — using the OTPF as a guiding framework, revealing that narrow referral patterns persist (handwriting, sensory, and fine motor still dominate), over two-thirds of OTPs aren't using formal environmental assessments, and most practitioners are operating in a "blended" workload/caseload model. Three major interconnected themes emerged from the data: role confusion, inconsistent leadership opportunities, and an incomplete transition to the workload approach.
Whether you're looking for validation, language to advocate for your role, or a clearer picture of where the profession stands today — this episode is for you.
Press play to discover where school-based OT stands today and what needs to change to move the profession forward.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
— Learners will identify the most common referral patterns in school-based OT and recognize gaps in scope.
— Learners will recognize the three major themes affecting school-based OT practice.
— Learners will identify the unique value of school-based OT using research evidence.
—Learners will identify practical ways to expand their role, advocate for involvement in MTSS/RTI activities, and move toward more leadership within their schools.
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What if we've been asking the wrong question all along?
For years, school-based occupational therapy practitioners have debated whether challenging student behaviors are driven by sensory processing differences or behavior. But what if that distinction isn't the most important one?
In this episode, Jayson is joined by Kristen Brokamp, OTR/L and Breanna Lynch, OTR/L, co-founders of Holding Space Collaborative, to explore how OTPs can move beyond labels and instead focus on participation, regulation, trauma-informed care, and systems-level change.
Together, they discuss why behavior is often a signal—not the problem itself—and how occupational therapy practitioners are uniquely positioned to help schools build environments that promote wellness, collaboration, and meaningful participation for every student.
Whether you're supporting students individually, consulting with teachers, or hoping to expand OT's impact throughout your school, this conversation will challenge your thinking and inspire new possibilities.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
— Learners will identify why focusing solely on "sensory vs. behavior" may limit occupational therapy intervention.
— Learners will recognize OT's role in supporting school-wide wellness and prevention efforts.
— Learners will identify opportunities to implement systems-level strategies that promote student participation and regulation.
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Jayson Davies sits down with Kelli Fetter, founder of Handwriting Solutions, to explore the world of dysgraphia — from the challenges of diagnosis and assessment to evidence-based, school-based intervention strategies. Kelli shares her personal journey as both an OT and parent of a child with dysgraphia, and explains why she believes school-based OTs are the most well-positioned experts to lead the charge on handwriting support.
Kelli and Jayson dig into practical topics including how to assess handwriting across different cognitive load levels, the difference between top-down and bottom-up intervention approaches, and how MTSS frameworks can be used to build tiered handwriting programs in schools. They also discuss the emerging "science of writing" movement and why now is a critical moment for OTs to step into a leadership role in this space.
Whether you're new to school-based practice or looking to sharpen your handwriting intervention skills, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can bring directly to your students. Listen now to learn how to confidently support students with dysgraphia and written expression challenges — and why it's never too late to make a difference.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Explain the OT's role in supporting students with dysgraphia within a tiered MTSS framework, including how to collaborate with teachers, SLPs, and special educators to address written expression as a shared team goal.
- Apply assessment strategies across varying cognitive load levels — from tracing and near-point copying to dictation and self-generated writing — to identify automaticity gaps and guide intervention planning.
- Design intensive, frequency-based handwriting intervention models (such as handwriting clubs or camp programs) that leverage motor learning principles to produce faster, more meaningful outcomes than traditional once-weekly sessions.
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
If you're a school-based occupational therapy practitioner feeling burnt out, dysregulated, or overwhelmed by your caseload, this episode is for you. Robyn Chu, MOT, OTR/L, author of Sensory Wellness: The Art and Science of Thriving, joins us to flip the traditional sensory conversation on its head. Instead of focusing solely on how to support students' sensory needs, Robyn discusses how understanding your own sensory processing can be the foundation for everything else you do.
Robyn discusses why "calm all the time" isn't the goal, how sensory input actively creates emotions (not just reactions to them), and why you have more control over your regulation than you think—even in challenging school environments. Drawing from neuroscience research and years of clinical experience, she offers practical insights on energy management, nervous system regulation, and why addressing your own sensory wellness isn't just another item on your to-do list—it's what makes everything else work.
Whether you're driving between five schools in a week or sitting down to write reports in a fluorescent-lit room, this episode offers practical wisdom on energy management, nervous system regulation, and why "calm all the time" isn't the goal. Listen now to learn how sensory wellness can help you be your best self for your students—and for yourself.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how your own sensory processing patterns impact your daily regulation and work performance
- Learners will recognize the difference between interoceptive and exteroceptive sensory input and why it matters for adults
- Learners will apply practical sensory adjustments to your work environment that you can control, even in challenging school settings
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Struggling to figure out how occupational therapy fits within your school's MTSS framework?
In this episode, Dr. Courtney Boitano shares findings from two groundbreaking studies on sensory processing interventions for kindergarten and fifth-grade students. As a faculty member at San Jose State University and a school-based OT with over 15 years of experience, Courtney provides practical insights into implementing tiered sensory supports that actually work. You'll learn how to use free screening tools like the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to identify students who need additional support, why teacher consultation may be more impactful than you think, and how to implement Zones of Regulation strategies across different tiers.
Whether you're new to MTSS or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers evidence-based strategies you can start using tomorrow to support students and empower teachers with sensory processing challenges in your schools.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the research findings from tier 1 and tier 2 sensory interventions with kindergarten and fifth-grade students
- Learners will implement evidence based teacher consult strategies as a high- impact MTSS intervention.
- Learners will Identify the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire as a screening tool to identify students who may benefit from sensory processing interventions and determine appropriate tier- level supports.
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you still relying on the Peabody or BOT as your go-to assessment? You're not alone, but you might be missing something critical. In this episode, we dive deep into occupation-based assessment with Dr. Alysha Skuthan and Dr. Erin Gaby, who recently published groundbreaking research on the occupational profile in school-based practice.
This conversation is for every school-based OT who has ever wondered: What actually makes an assessment occupation-based? Why does the occupational profile matter? And how can I fit it into my already overwhelming workload?
The research reveals surprising findings from their research showing that 35% of school-based OTs don't complete occupational profiles, despite it being a formal requirement in the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework.
You'll hear practical strategies for collecting occupational profiles, honest talk about barriers like time constraints and parent communication, and compelling reasons why using occupational language in your reports matters for advocacy. Plus, they discuss occupation-based alternatives to common standardized tests and share their favorite tools like the School Function Assessment.
Listen to learn how shifting to occupation-based practice can transform not just your assessments, but your entire intervention approach.
Learning Objectives
— Learners will identify the key characteristics that distinguish occupation-based assessments from skill-based assessments
— Learners will recognize why the occupational profile is an important component of every SBOT evaluation
— Learners will identify the importance of using occupational language in evaluation reports for professional advocacy
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
When a student refuses to eat at school, it affects everything—academic performance, regulation, social interactions, and the afternoon meltdown that follows.
In this episode, @Jayson Davies sits down with Alisha Grogan, MOT, OTR/L, founder of Your Kid's Table, to talk about feeding challenges in school-based OT. Alisha brings over 20 years of experience working with extreme picky eaters and shares what school-based practitioners need to know about supporting students who struggle with lunch and snacks.
You'll learn how to identify when picky eating crosses into extreme territory, why the cafeteria environment can be so overwhelming for sensory-sensitive students, and what accommodations actually help. Alisha also clarifies the often-confusing scope question: what can school-based OTs reasonably address versus what requires outside support?
Whether you're freezing up when feeding comes up in an IEP or wondering how to support a student who won't eat at school, this conversation offers practical, realistic guidance grounded in both clinical expertise and respect for the school setting.
Listen now to learn how to make lunchtime less stressful and more successful for the students on your caseload.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this episode, learners will be able to:
- Learners will identify the clinical indicators that distinguish extreme picky eating from typical developmental selectivity, including the 20-food threshold and sensory-behavioral red flags (Remember/Understand)
- Learners will identify and address environmental barriers in the cafeteria that prevent students from eating at school—including sensory overwhelm from noise, lighting, smells, and peer interactions—and implement appropriate accommodations such as quiet eating spaces, noise-canceling headphones, weighted lap pads, and regulation strategies
- Learners will identify scope of practice for feeding intervention in schools by understanding what is appropriate for school-based OT (supporting participation in lunch/snack routines, environmental modifications, family education) versus what requires outside clinic-based or medical feeding therapy (expanding food repertoire, intensive feeding protocols, home mealtime culture changes)
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
This course explores the evolving landscape of school-aged mental health in a post-COVID world and the expanding role of occupational therapy in supporting students’ emotional, behavioral, and functional participation.
Dr. Monica Keen examines current mental-health trends, trauma-informed care, behavior changes following the pandemic, and evidence-aligned OT strategies for school settings.
Participants will learn practical, occupation-based approaches for addressing emotional regulation, engagement, and school participation within a tiered model of support.
This course is part of the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community, where school-based practitioners come together to deepen clinical reasoning, explore meaningful topics, and translate evidence into real-world practice.
If you’re looking to earn CEU’s for this course and access a full library of professional development opportunities, you can join the community here 👉 https://www.otschoolhouse.com/collab
Learning Objectives
—Learners will identify three mental illness diagnoses of school-aged children.
—Learners will identify reasons/events for childhood mental illness and how it impacts occupational engagement.
—Learners will recognize the role of OT in addressing these mental health issues in the school setting
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Transitioning from OT student to practicing clinician isn’t always a straight path—and in this episode, Chandler Sarkozi shares her real, unfiltered journey into school-based practice. From taking the NBCOT multiple times to navigating job options and ultimately choosing a travel-based school position, this conversation highlights the challenges many new grads face but don’t often talk about.
Chandler dives into what it actually looks like to start mid-year as a contract OT, including figuring out housing, building rapport with students and staff, and working through imposter syndrome. She also shares practical insights on the interview process, key questions to ask employers, and how a strong support system can make all the difference.
Whether you're a new grad, exploring school-based OT, or curious about travel therapy, this episode offers honest guidance and reassurance. 🎙️ Press play to hear how Chandler learned to trust herself, stay flexible, and grow into her role.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
Learners will identify…
- Identify strategies for transitioning from OT student to school-based practitioner
- Learners will identify key considerations when choosing between contract and district school-based OT roles
- Determine essential interview questions to assess support, caseload, and job expectations
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Jayson discusses the often-overlooked but critical role that state and national occupational therapy associations play in protecting and advancing the profession. He highlights major advocacy wins from the past year, including AOTA's successful defense of Section 504, California's groundbreaking administrative credential legislation, Nevada's prevention of ABA encroachment on ADL services, and Nebraska's modernized OT Practice Act.
Whether you're already a member or considering joining your state or national association, this episode offers compelling reasons to get involved—from joining and volunteering to simply sharing advocacy updates with colleagues. Listen now to discover how your support can secure the future of school-based occupational therapy and ensure OT continues thriving in education settings.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, host Jayson Davies is joined by Aimee Piller and Dr. Sultan Alfawaz to explore a powerful shift in school-based occupational therapy practice. Together, they break down how aligning OT services with academic standards can transform both student outcomes and how practitioners advocate for their role in schools.
You’ll learn practical strategies for linking evaluation data and sensory processing patterns to educational goals, including how to connect assessments like the EASI, SOCM, and BOT-3 to specific academic standards. The episode also unpacks proximal vs. distal outcomes and helps you confidently determine when to use Ayres Sensory Integration® versus sensory-based interventions in school settings.
Whether you're looking to strengthen your evaluations, improve collaboration with teachers, or better justify your services in IEP meetings, this episode provides a clear, actionable framework you can start using right away.
🎧 Listen now to learn how to connect your OT services to what matters most in schools—student participation and academic success.
Learning Objectives
— Learners will identify how to link occupational therapy interventions to academic or state standards to improve educational relevance and advocacy in school settings.
— Learners will differentiate between proximal (sensory processing) and distal (participation/academic) outcomes to strengthen clinical reasoning and goal writing.
— Learners will identify how to integrate state standards into the referral and evaluation process.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Artificial intelligence is quickly entering healthcare and education, and occupational therapists are asking an important question: How can we use AI responsibly without losing the clinical reasoning that defines our profession? In this episode, Jayson Davies sits down with OT educator and researcher Tara Mansour to explore practical, ethical ways school-based OT practitioners can begin using AI tools.
Tara shares how she teaches future occupational therapists to use AI as a “first draft partner” while still prioritizing evidence-based practice, professional judgment, and student-centered care. They also discuss privacy considerations, prompt strategies, treatment planning ideas, and how AI can support data collection, documentation, and intervention development.
If you're curious about how AI might fit into your school-based OT workflow—or concerned about how it could impact clinical reasoning—this episode provides a thoughtful and practical perspective. Tune in to learn how AI can support occupational therapy while keeping the human clinician firmly in the loop.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
— Learners will describe appropriate ways AI tools can support school-based OT practice, including treatment planning, documentation drafting, and intervention idea generation.
— Learners will explain ethical and privacy considerations when using AI, including FERPA and HIPAA concerns and strategies for de-identifying student information.
— Learners will identify the "human-in-the-loop" approach to AI-assisted practice, distinguishing between AI-generated versus AI-assisted work and the role of critical clinical reasoning in evaluating AI outputs.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Join us in this episode where Nicole Dahl shares her powerful journey as a parent navigating occupational therapy services for her son on the autism spectrum. She opens up about the challenges of understanding the "why" behind therapy activities and the frustration of disconnected communication between providers, teachers, and home.
Through Nicole's story, school-based OT practitioners gain invaluable insight into what parents truly need: clear explanations in plain language, collaborative communication between all team members, and practical strategies they can implement at home. She emphasizes that while the journey wasn't always smooth, consistent OT support—combined with strong parent education—transformed her son's trajectory from struggling in isolation to thriving as a high school senior and water polo team captain.
Ready to hear how better communication and parent partnership can make all the difference in a child's IEP journey? Listen now to gain perspective that will transform how you work with families and create lasting impact beyond the therapy session.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the critical importance of communicating the "why" behind OT interventions to parents in accessible, non-clinical language to increase understanding and home carryover
- Recognize the value of collaborative communication between school-based OT, outpatient providers, teachers, and parents to create cohesive support systems for students
- Identify practical strategies for empowering parents as active IEP team members through education, consistent feedback loops, and actionable recommendations they can implement at home
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Supporting teachers can be one of the most powerful ways to create lasting change for students—but it requires a shift in how we view our role as school-based OTs. In this episode, Dr. Ellen Cullen shares her groundbreaking doctoral capstone work on occupation-based coaching, where she treated teachers as clients and used MOHO to support their self-efficacy and align their practices with their professional values.
Ellen reveals how experienced teachers often don't lack competence—they lack alignment between what they value and what the system demands of them. By becoming co-designers rather than experts, OTs can empower teachers to reclaim their autonomy, reduce burnout, and implement sustainable strategies that truly benefit students.
Whether you're struggling to make time for consultation or wondering how to make your impact last beyond the therapy session, this episode offers practical, immediately actionable strategies. Listen now to discover how supporting teachers isn't just good practice—it's essential to creating meaningful change for the students we serve.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the power dynamics in classroom consultation and how to approach teachers as occupational beings
- Learners will identify how to apply occupation-based coaching models (using frameworks like MOHO and IRM) to support teacher self-efficacy
- Learners will understand practical strategies for integrating teacher support into existing service delivery models
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Walking into a classroom filled with visual clutter, constant noise, and lingering smells from an air fryer might leave you wondering how any student can focus—let alone those with sensory processing challenges. In this episode, Dr. Heather Kuhaneck joins school-based OT practitioners Linda Kinkade and Dana Hawkins to introduce the Classroom Sensory Environment Assessment (C-SEA), a tool designed to help teachers assess and modify their classroom environments to better support students with sensory needs.
Unlike traditional assessments that focus on individual students, the C-SEA evaluates the entire classroom across five sensory domains: visual, sound, movement, touch, and smell. Dr. Kuhaneck explains how the tool provides teachers with a visual map of their classroom's sensory profile—without labeling it as "good" or "bad"—making it easier to gain buy-in for meaningful changes. Linda and Dana share real-world examples of how they've used the C-SEA to uncover hidden sensory triggers, like the surprising impact of an air fryer on student behavior.
Whether you're struggling to help teachers understand sensory processing or looking for a collaborative approach to classroom modifications, this episode offers practical strategies you can implement immediately. Tune in to discover how the C-SEA can transform your practice and create more sensory-friendly learning environments for all students.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Identify the purpose of the Classroom Sensory Environment Assessment (C-SEA) and describe how it differs from student-centered sensory assessments such as the SPM-2 or Sensory Profile.
- Identify the five sensory domains addressed within the C-SEA and describe common classroom-based sensory considerations.
- Describe how the C-SEA can be used to support conversations with teachers about sensory-friendly classroom environments.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Dr. Aimee Piller joins the OT Schoolhouse Podcast to explore how school-based occupational therapists can apply their sensory expertise within a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS).
She shares practical strategies for moving beyond traditional IEP-based services to support entire classrooms at Tier 1 and small groups at Tier 2, helping OT practitioners maximize their impact while managing their caseloads more effectively.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the three tiers of MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) and how occupational therapy services can be effectively integrated at each tier to support students with sensory processing needs
- Describe assessment strategies for evaluating sensory processing patterns at population, group, and individual levels within the MTSS framework
- Implement evidence-based sensory interventions at Tier 1 and Tier 2 levels, including strategies for training paraprofessionals and monitoring progress through data collection
Whether you're new to school-based practice or looking to expand your service delivery model, this episode offers actionable insights on implementing tiered sensory interventions. Listen now to discover how you can support more students while staying within your professional scope and managing your time effectively.
Click here to view the full show notes for episode 192
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this Episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Jayson Davies welcomes Dr. Jaime Hunter and Dr. Kaisa Syväoja from The College of St. Scholastica to discuss how OT practitioners can utilize grants to advocate for mental health services in schools. Learn how grants can expand your OT practice beyond traditional tier three services, whether you're looking to fund a sensory room, provide professional development, or implement a school-wide mental health initiative.
This conversation demystifies the grant-writing process, offers practical tips for finding and applying for grants at the federal, state, and local levels, and highlights the power of collaboration to sustain impact beyond the grant period—making this a must-listen for OTs ready to expand their role and amplify OT’s value in schools.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how to apply for grants (both small and large) to expand mental health services and other OT initiatives within school settings.
- Learners will understand how to effectively advocate for occupational therapy's role in supporting mental health at all tiers (especially tiers 1 and 2) within school-based practice.
- Learners will develop strategies for creating sustainable partnerships and programs that can continue beyond initial grant funding by demonstrating OT's value to school administrators and staff.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Get ready to blast off into a powerful new way of understanding sensory processing in schools. In this episode, Danielle Pluth and Ruth Isaac—Canadian occupational therapists and creators of the Good Sense OT Rocket Ship—share the innovative visual framework that’s transforming how OTs assess, communicate, and support student participation.
The Rocket Ship helps therapists differentiate sensory-based behaviors from other performance factors, guiding you from foundational sensory regulation all the way up through sensory-motor, reflexes, perceptual motor skills, interoception, and cognitive functions at the top of the “rocket.” This structure gives OTPs a clear map for identifying root causes of behavior and choosing targeted, meaningful school-based strategies that go far beyond “wiggle cushions and chewelry.”
Whether you’re brand-new to sensory integration or have years of experience, this conversation will deepen your clinical reasoning, strengthen your confidence, and help you clearly communicate sensory needs to teachers, parents, and IEP teams. If you’ve been searching for a practical, visually powerful way to explain sensory processing to your teams and build stronger intervention plans, the Good Sense Rocket Ship may be exactly what you’ve been missing.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the Good Sense Rocketship Framework and its application in addressing sensory-related behaviors in school-based OT practice.
- Learn strategies to identify and assess sensory processing challenges and their impact on students' functional performance.
- Explore effective interventions to support regulation, sensory-motor development, and collaboration with educators and parents.
Click here to register & get the best deal on the 2026 Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Dive into groundbreaking research on the transition from caseload to workload models in school-based OT with Stanbridge University MOT students Jalen, Michelle, Jared, and Ari. Their nationwide survey revealed striking results: practitioners using a workload model reported significantly lower burnout scores compared to those using a caseload model and majority strongly agreeing that the workload approach reduces stress levels.
The students' research identified key barriers to making this transition—primarily lack of administrative support and scheduling conflicts—while highlighting successful facilitators including peer support and improved collaboration with teachers. Their findings emphasize the importance of data collection for advocacy, suggesting that tracking time spent on indirect services provides compelling evidence when approaching administrators about workload changes.
This episode offers practical insights for school-based OTs feeling overwhelmed, with recommendations to start small by tracking weekly time usage and increasing teacher collaboration. Listen now to discover how transitioning to a workload model can transform your practice, reducing burnout while improving service quality and student outcomes.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Listeners will compare the impact of caseload versus workload models on therapist burnout, stress levels, and job satisfaction.
- Listeners will identify key barriers and facilitators to transitioning from a caseload to workload approach.
- Listeners will identify practical strategies for initiating a workload approach.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Everyday Ethics in School-Based OT: Navigating Challenges with Clarity & Confidence equips school-based occupational therapists with the tools to confidently address real-world ethical dilemmas that arise in educational settings. Through case studies, decision-making frameworks, and updated guidance from AOTA, FOTA, and state-level regulations, participants will strengthen their ability to apply ethical principles to complex situations involving service delivery, documentation, advocacy, and the use of emerging tools like AI.
This course enhances professional judgment, reduces uncertainty when facing ethical pressures, and promotes alignment with best practices and legal requirements. Ultimately, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to advocate for ethical change within their districts while maintaining student-centered, legally compliant, and neurodiversity-affirming care.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify and describe modern ethical dilemmas within the school setting.
- Learners will apply ethical decision-making frameworks within the school-based setting case study.
- Learners will identify strategies for ethical advocacy and communication within the school setting.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Matthew Husband, OTD, OTR/L shares his innovative "Get to Work" program, an after-school initiative providing realistic work experiences for high school students who could succeed in employment with the right supports. The program follows a monthly pattern with on-campus training focused on hard and soft skills, followed by community-based experiences at actual workplaces including pizzerias, box stores, grocery stores, and laundry facilities.
Matthew discusses how occupational therapists can support transition planning through self-determination skills training and standardized resource guides for students and families. He emphasizes the importance of starting small with on-campus work opportunities if off-campus trips aren't feasible, including mail room tasks, cafeteria work, recycling programs, and classroom helper roles.
Whether you work in a private or public school setting, this episode offers practical strategies to prepare students for life after graduation through building confidence in their employment abilities. Listen to discover how Matthew's "four pots garden" analogy demonstrates how small projects can grow with proven success and learn actionable ways to incorporate employment readiness skills into your school-based OT practice.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how to implement strategies for developing realistic work experiences (off-campus partnerships or on-campus tasks) and how these experiences contribute to authentic work readiness.
- Learners will recall the content and purpose of a standardized transition resource guide, including tailoring content to local resources and explaining its role in family engagement.
- Learners will explain how self-determination training helps students identify their preferences, strengths, and weaknesses, and how to write and track SMART goals to support employment outcomes after graduation.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
OTs hold the key to school-wide success by grounding self-regulation in sensory-motor regulation—not just in emotions. In this episode, Sherry Shellenberger and Jennie Largent show how the Alert Program provides a foundational layer many SEL programs miss, share practical strategies for piloting change, and explain how to talk with administrators to secure support and funding. Tune in to learn clear steps to expand OT impact from individual support to whole-school change.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Identify and effectively communicate the value of sensory-motor self-regulation approaches to administrators and decision-makers by collecting meaningful data through pilot programs and by developing stakeholder-specific documentation.
- Identify opportunities to integrate self-regulation programs, such as The Alert Program for Self-Regulation, with existing SEL programs, and discover the foundational role of sensory-motor regulation in supporting emotional regulation.
- Identify strategies to be effective change agents within school settings by collaborating with colleagues, applying evidence-based practices, and establishing systems that demonstrate the unique value of the occupational therapy approach to self-regulation; discover approaches to sustain and scale impact.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this exciting episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Sarah Collins, a pioneer in the world of homeschooling and occupational therapy. It’s been over five years since Sarah first joined us, right at the onset of the pandemic, and so much has evolved since then.
With over 3 million students now homeschooled in the United States, understanding the intersection of occupational therapy and homeschooling has never been more crucial. Sarah brings a unique three-sided perspective as an occupational therapist, a dedicated homeschooling parent, and a mother of a neurodivergent child. Together, we get into how homeschooling has transformed, the challenges families face, and the vital role OT practitioners can play in supporting these students.
Join us as we explore the innovative ways OT can adapt to the individualized learning environments of homeschooled students, the importance of collaboration with families, and how to address their unique needs effectively. Whether you're currently working with homeschool families or anticipate encountering students transitioning from homeschool to traditional settings, this conversation is packed with valuable insights that will enhance your practice.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will analyze the unique culture and philosophy of homeschooling to effectively collaborate with homeschool families without questioning their educational choices
- Learners will develop skills for supporting transitions between homeschool and traditional school settings, including identifying accommodations parents naturally provide at home that may need to be continued in school
- Learners will identify approaches for providing occupational therapy services to homeschooled students through various delivery models (nature-based, private practice, public school services where available) while respecting the individualized nature of homeschool education.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Discover the exciting updates and enhancements of the BOT-3 assessment tool with Dr. Elizabeth Munsell, Research Director at Pearson.
Learn how this latest version offers updated norms, supplemental scores, and innovative features designed specifically for school-based occupational therapy practitioners.
Dr. Munsell explains the key differences between BOT-2 and BOT-3, including new growth scale values for better progress monitoring and specialized scoring options like the Planning and Coordination subtest. She also shares practical insights on how to use assessment results to connect motor performance with functional academic and social participation goals.
Join Jayson Davies for this episode that answers your most pressing questions about transitioning to the BOT-3 and maximizing its clinical value. Listen now to enhance your assessment practices and better support your students' motor development needs!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the key differences between the BOT-2 and BOT-3, including updated norms, supplemental scores, and growth scale values (GSVs).
- Learners will explain how the new features of the BOT-3 can support connections between motor performance and functional, academic, and social participation.
- Learners will recognize practical considerations for transitioning to the BOT-3, such as communicating its value to administrators and using it in school-based practice.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Join Jayson Davies as he sits down with occupational therapists and co-founders of B3 Coffee, Jacqueline and Greg Boheler, to explore their unique, neurodiversity-affirming non-profit. They share how they've built a multi-faceted organization that includes a transitional employment model and a robust community program to support young adults with disabilities beyond high school. This episode provides invaluable insight into how school-based OTs can support transition-age youth by focusing on foundational skills and connecting families with crucial adult services. You will also get a look at B3 Coffee's exciting plans to launch a replicable "clubhouse" model for the IDD community. Listen now to be inspired to facilitate meaningful change for your students and your community!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify why a "cliff" occurs and recognize the urgency of addressing it by connecting students and families with crucial adult resources and advocating for a focus on lifelong skills.
- Listeners will understand the significant gap in services and support that many young adults with disabilities experience after graduating high school.
- Listeners will grasp the occupational therapist's vital role in helping students develop a comprehensive, occupation-based transition portfolio.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Jayson sits down with Amy Fehr, MSOT, OTR/L, an experienced school-based OT and current clinical advisor at BlazerWorks, to tackle the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities that all therapists—whether contracted, new, or in-district—face in the ever-evolving landscape of school settings. Discover how to effectively build rapport with staff, advocate for the vital role of occupational therapy, and navigate the complexities of district onboarding and supervision.
Are you ready to elevate your practice and make a meaningful impact in your school community? Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your established role, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you thrive and feel truly valued within your school team.
Tune in now and take the next step in making a lasting impact on your students and school community!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify effective strategies for OT practitioners to build rapport with school staff and administrators.
- Learners will understand how to leverage IEPs and team meetings to advocate for the OT role.
- Learners will recognize ways to support professional identity, confidence, and inclusion in school teams.
- Learners will understand how district leadership can foster a more inclusive environment for all OT practitioners.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you a school-based occupational therapist looking to streamline your practice, build stronger collaborations, and navigate the complexities of documentation, assessments, and district requirements?
In this episode, Krupa Kuruvilla shares invaluable tips and systems she's developed over her 10+ years in the field. From managing limited workspace to effective parent communication, her insights will help you kick off the school year with confidence and organization. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these practical strategies will elevate your OT practice and make your school year more manageable and impactful.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify practical strategies for organizing caseloads, documentation, and assessments.
- Learners will recognize effective communication techniques with teachers, support staff, and families.
- Learners will understand how to navigate shared workspaces and limited resources in school settings.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What do Rubik’s Cubes, art, and therapy have in common? In this inspiring episode, Jayson chats with Kyle Cubes, a Rubik’s Cube artist and autistic adult who has transformed a personal coping strategy into a therapeutic tool for others. Kyle shares his journey of late diagnosis, how he found emotional regulation through cube art, and how he’s now empowering therapists and clients alike to find joy, structure, and growth through this creative medium. Whether you’ve never touched a cube or are already solving them in seconds, this conversation will change the way you think about therapy tools.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how Rubik’s Cube-based activities can support the development of fine motor, visual-spatial, and executive functioning skills in students.
- Learners will describe how to scaffold Rubik’s Cube tasks to meet diverse learner needs and align with individualized OT goals.
- Learners will explore ways in which Rubik’s Cube art can support emotional regulation and student engagement in therapeutic and educational settings.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you ready to champion one of the most essential—and overlooked—parts of the school day? In this episode, Jayson Davies dives into the impactful world of recess with special guests Morgan and Catherine, founders "Say Yes to Recess."
Listen in as they share how two passionate parents from Tennessee ignited a movement that’s reshaping school policies and even legislation around the country.
This episode is packed with insights for school-based occupational therapy practitioners: you'll hear research-backed benefits of physical activity, learn strategies for advocating recess in your district, and discover why more unstructured play can positively transform classroom behavior and whole-child development.
If you want practical advocacy tips and new inspiration to help your students thrive, you won’t want to miss this one!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the benefits of recess and the critical role it plays in supporting children's physical, emotional, and social development.
- Learners will understand about systemic barriers to recess, including legislative and administrative challenges, and strategies for advocating for increased unstructured playtime in schools.
- Learners will explore research-backed approaches, such as the LINC project, that highlight the positive impacts of physical activity on academic performance, classroom behavior, and overall well-being.
Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What does it really mean to provide neurodiversity-affirming care in schools? In this episode, Dr. Bryden Carlson-Giving—a neurodivergent OT and creator of the Empower Model—shares powerful insights and practical strategies to move beyond deficit-focused practices and truly center student voice, identity, and autonomy.
You’ll learn how to write strengths-based goals, conduct inclusive evaluations, and support authentic participation—while navigating the real-world challenges of school-based OT. Whether you're a seasoned OT or new to the field, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to better support neurodivergent learners.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the foundations of neurodiversity affirming practice
- Learners will identify practical strategies to make OT services more empowering for neurodivergent students
- Learners will explore the empower model in School-Based OT
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In Part 2 of this important conversation, Dr. Savitha Sundar returns to explore what inclusive OT practice can look like beyond the buzzwords. In this episode, Savitha helps us shift from reflection to action, discussing how to align our evaluations, goals, and service models with the values of true inclusion.
We also talk about building meaningful collaborations with general education staff, embedding participation-focused goals into IEPs, and celebrating small wins in systems that are slow to change. If you’ve ever asked how to make your OT services more inclusive and collaborative, this episode is a must-listen.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Distinguish between traditional “push-in” models and inclusive OT practices that center student participation in general education environments.
- Learn how to write IEP goals and conduct evaluations that promote inclusive outcomes for students with extensive support needs.
- Explore strategies for building trust and collaboration with general education teachers to support system-wide inclusion.
View the full show notes and Transcript at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode177
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Ever wondered how school-based OTs can meaningfully support students with extensive support needs?
Supporting students with extensive support needs has long been one of the most challenging and under-resourced areas of school-based OT. In this first of a two-part episode, Dr. Savitha Sundar joins Jayson to unpack the history, systemic influences, and practitioner struggles that shape how services are delivered in special education classrooms today. From redefining outdated language to exploring how friendships and peer modeling can shift trajectories, this episode is a powerful reflection on the ethical and practical realities of inclusive education.
This episode sets the foundation for building more inclusive school communities—and why occupational therapists play a key role in leading that change.
🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll move into actionable strategies and systemic shifts.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
-Learners will reflect on the historical and systemic factors that have contributed to the segregation of students with extensive support needs in school settings.
-Learners will identify challenges OTPs face when serving students in self-contained classrooms and how these challenges impact practice.
-Learners will understand the evolving terminology and research around inclusive education and how it relates to the role of school-based OTPs.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Jayson discusses the often misunderstood role of school-based occupational therapy practitioners. He emphasizes the need for OT practitioners to advocate for their diverse skills beyond handwriting instruction, highlighting the importance of collaboration with teachers and administrators.
The conversation explores teacher and administrator perspectives on OT services, the value of collaboration, and the challenges faced by OT practitioners in schools. Jayson encourages listeners to find ways to support teachers and improve the perception of OT in educational settings.
Takeaways
- School-based OT practitioners are often seen only as handwriting instructors.
- Teachers value collaboration with OT practitioners to support students.
- Many teachers want to see more OT involvement in classrooms.
- Administrators may not fully understand the workload model of OT services.
- OT practitioners need to advocate for their diverse roles in schools.
- Collaboration can lead to better outcomes for students.
- Teachers appreciate OT support in their classrooms.
- OT practitioners should provide practical strategies to teachers.
- Understanding teacher perspectives can improve OT services.
- Advocacy is essential for changing perceptions of OT in education.
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Jayson has a compelling conversation with guests Jaime Spencer, Kim Wiggins, and Serena Zeidler as they discuss their research into the barriers and opportunities for OTPs aspiring to leadership positions within the educational system.
Discover the historical and legislative challenges OTPs face, the vast impact on school communities, and the innovative ways states are beginning to address these issues. With engaging insights and passionate advocacy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in transforming the role of OTs in schools and ensuring their potential is fully realized for the benefit of students and educators.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will be able to explain how historical perceptions of OTs influence their current exclusion from leadership roles in education.
- Learners will identify legislative and credentialing differences that affect OT administrative eligibility across the U.S.
- Learners will identify the barriers that prevent OTs from being recognized as instructional staff in various states.
View the full show notes for this episode here!
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Doug Vestal, author, and financial guru, uncovers the path to financial freedom for occupational therapists. He will dive into the heart of money management and share how he and his wife tackled $150,000 of student loan debt in three years and offer invaluable strategies to help you do the same.
From budgeting tips to investing insights, Doug equips OTs with the tools to boost their financial health and leverage financial stability to become more effective practitioners. Whether you’re an OT seeking to start your own practice or simply aiming to get out of debt and plan for the future, this episode is your roadmap to financial empowerment.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the importance of financial literacy
- Learners will identify strategies to help pay down debt
- Learners will identify budgeting strategies and how to allocate funds effectively
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Yesterday, after President Trump signed the Executive Order related to the Dept. of Education, I sat down with Abe Saffer (AOTA Senior Legislative Representative) to discuss the immediate and potential long-term implications for OT practitioners and those we serve.
In this episode, we discuss the recent executive order signed by President Trump regarding the Department of Education. We also explore the implications of significant staff layoffs, the potential impact on school-based occupational therapy practitioners, and the shift of power to state education departments. The conversation also highlights AOTA's response to these changes and the financial implications of the executive order.
This episode was edited quickly to get it to you as soon as possible. We apologize for the rough audio in some sections, but we hope the content is helpful.
References:
- The executive order
- Navigating Change: Expert Perspectives on Recent Federal Education Actions on School-Based Practice (At AOTA Inspire) - Thursday, April 3 | 10:00 am–11:00 am
- Executive order eliminating the Department of Education (AOTA Article from Abe)
-
Protecting Section 504 (AOTA Advocacy Article)
-
Recorded on 3/20/2025 at 3 pm PT
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode Jayson teams up with guests Karen and Heather to get into the transformative world of Psymark—a digital tool designed to revolutionize school-based occupational therapy assessments. Karen’s journey from school psychologist to a tech innovator, alongside Heather’s experience as an occupational therapist, offers listeners a deep dive into how technology is reshaping the way we monitor and support students' visual motor integration.
Discover the magic behind self-scoring iPad assessments that promise to simplify processes, provide teachers and therapists with precise insights, and potentially reduce referrals, all while laying the groundwork for essential interventions. Join us for an exploration of cutting-edge strategies making waves in the field of occupational therapy.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will recall the components and purpose of the Psymark tool
- Learners will identify the specific visual motor assessment areas that the Psymark tool evaluates
- Learners will be able to indicate some of the initial research and data analysis of the psymark tool
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Discover the transformative power of nature in the classroom with this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast! Join host Jayson Davies as he chats with Alex Thompson, an experienced occupational therapist and former teacher, who has devoted her career to blending nature with school-based OT practices. Learn how Alex empowers teachers and students by redesigning classrooms, creating sensory-friendly environments, and fostering self-regulation through the innovative use of outdoor and nature-inspired strategies. Don’t miss the chance to reimagine classroom design with nature as your guide!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will recognize…the significance of collaborating with teachers and students to create learning environments (via classroom makeovers or modifications) that address the diverse sensory, emotional, and learning needs of all students.
- Learners will identify the role of occupational therapy in classroom design and understand how incorporating nature and holistic approaches can improve self-regulation and learning outcomes in students.
- Learners will associate that supporting teachers' self-regulation and wellness directly impacts the classroom atmosphere and student outcomes.
Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!
Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong.
CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Do you ever feel like daily notes are just another task on your never-ending to-do list? In this episode, we’re diving into the world of note writing in school-based OT with Jason Gonzalez, OTR/L, co-founder of Double Time Docs. We’ll unpack the purpose of documentation, discuss strategies to make it more efficient and explore how technology can simplify your workflow. Whether you're a seasoned OT or new to school-based practice, this conversation will help you streamline your notes and spend more time doing what you love—helping students thrive!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the essential components of effective school-based OT documentation and its role in student progress.
- Learners will understand common challenges in note writing and how to streamline documentation without sacrificing quality.
- Learners will apply strategies for efficient documentation, including using digital tools like Double Time Docs to track progress and inform interventions.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
How can two school-based OTs have identical caseload numbers but vastly different workloads?
This episode promises a fresh perspective on evaluating the true demands of our roles, focusing not just on the numbers but the actual time commitments involved.
Join me as I introduce a new series of short, five-minute episodes designed to provide quick, actionable insights tailored for the OT Schoolhouse community.
Together, we'll explore:
• Misconception of measuring your caseload vs another
• Understanding the significance of workload in daily practice
• How different treatment frequency impacts your workload
• The implications of the 24-hour treatment threshold
• A shift in OT conversations from caseload to workload
So, let's break away from the norm and start asking the right questions to truly reflect the demands and responsibilities of our roles. Share your thoughts and let me know if this new format resonates with you!
Do you know your workload?
Grab your caseload spreadsheet and Identify your workload here.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What do you think makes handwriting fun and effective for kids? In this episode, we dig into strategies that don’t just teach handwriting but make it enjoyable for students.
Dr. Beverly Moskowitz, the Size Matters Handwriting Program creator, shares her 48 years of expertise to show you how to empower teachers, build student buy-in, and integrate handwriting practices across the curriculum.
From understanding key concepts like "Super C" letters to using engaging tools like stars, dice, and even spaghetti and meatballs for spacing, this episode is packed with practical, research-based tips. So, grab a notebook and join us as we explore the art of handwriting in a way that's as impactful as it is entertaining!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify at least two handwriting strategies that could be embedded in all content areas across the curriculum.
- Learners will identify at least two handwriting strategies you can use to increase student buy-in and teacher retention in the classroom.
- Learners will understand the benefits of structured and Adapted Material
Click here for youtube Live Version
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
**Discover the TimberNook program, where nature becomes the ultimate classroom for sensory integration, emotional growth, and creativity.
TimberNook empowers children to explore, problem-solve, and thrive through outdoor play.
Jayson and Angela discuss how this innovative approach can be woven into school curriculums and the profound benefits it offers. Get inspired by the magic of unstructured play and its critical role in child development. Tune in and reimagine what learning through play can achieve!**
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify common sensory and motor issues affecting students.
- Learners will identify the impact of outdoor play on sensory integration and child development.
- Learners will apply strategies to incorporate nature-based activities into therapeutic interventions.
- Learners will recognize the benefits of outdoor play for children's physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are your caseloads pushing you to the brink?
In this episode, Jayson digs into the pressing and widespread issue of high caseloads faced by school-based occupational therapists. With eye-opening statistics Jayson uncovers how these overwhelming demands contribute to burnout and impact the quality of student services. But this isn't just about identifying the problem—it's a call to action.
Tune in for innovative strategies and practical steps to create change and sustainability in school-based OT.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the critical factors contributing to high caseloads in school-based occupational therapy and their impact on service quality and practitioner retention.
- Learners will understand the broader implications of high caseloads on related service providers and school systems, including the need for collaborative advocacy.
- Learners will understand two different approaches to start addressing high caseloads.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you ever wondered how integrating reflex patterns could enhance your approach to therapy?
Join us as we discuss the world of reflex integration with Kokeb McDonald. She shares her journey and discusses the importance of understanding the root causes of developmental delays. You will learn about the MNRI program and how Kokeb has adapted its principles to create effective treatment plans within occupational therapy practice.
**This episode offers valuable insights into how addressing reflexes can lead to significant improvements in motor skills, attention, and overall functioning. Tune in to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:**
- Learners will be able to understand what reflex integration entails and its role in school-based OT
- Learners will understand the importance of reflex integration in occupational therapy, particularly in addressing self-regulation and sensory processing issues.
- Learners will understand how movement activities can be integrated into classroom settings to support reflex integration and improve student outcomes.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What if there was a way to make sensory integration more accessible, effective, and inclusive for every student you support?
In this episode with Dr. Colleen Cameron Whiting, OTD, OTR/L, she shares her research on integrating sensory integration within the school setting. From implementing a flexible 15-week intervention model to adapting strategies within a Multi-Tiered System of Support. Join us as this episode is packed with practical insights to empower us to make a meaningful change.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how sensory integration can be effectively implemented within a school setting using a multi-tiered support system (MTSS).
- Learners will understand the importance of collaboration between occupational therapists, teachers, and parents to enhance student engagement and classroom performance
- Learners will understand how to integrate SI strategies into everyday academic activities and tailor them to fit individual student needs.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Join Jayson and Amanda Gibbs as they discuss building a school-based OT toolbox. Together, they dive into tools and resources—like the interactive Osmo, 'Tools to Grow,' goodwill, and more—that make therapy sessions both effective and budget-friendly. Amanda shares her journey from navigating limited resources as a new grad to finding creative solutions that enhance her practice. Don’t miss this episode full of insights and practical tips to elevate your OT practice on a budget!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify cost-effective tools and resources for supporting skill development in school-based occupational therapy.
- Learners will understand district budgeting and resource processes to advocate for necessary occupational therapy materials, including recognizing key contacts for resource support in schools with limited budgets.
- Learners will identify tools and strategies for implementing a multisensory learning approach.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you ever wondered how vestibular challenges might be impacting your students’ ability to succeed in the classroom?
In this episode, Dr. Annie Baltazar Mori and Dr. Jennifer Petersen join us to unpack the powerful connection between the vestibular and proprioceptive systems, sharing insights that can transform your approach to these often-overlooked issues. Vestibular disorders are frequently at the root of classroom challenges, affecting everything from focus to motor coordination. Our guests will guide us on how to help students improve not only their physical skills but also their confidence and self-esteem.
Tune in as Dr. Baltazar Mori and Dr. Petersen walk us through the latest research, share their clinical expertise, and offer practical strategies to help our students reach their full potential!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand how the vestibular and proprioceptive systems interact
- Learners will identify at least 2 standardized assessment tools they can use to evaluate vestibular function in their students
- Learners will identify effective intervention strategies for vestibular disorders
- Learners will identify key strategies for educating teachers and others on recognizing vestibular challenges and embedding sensory-based interventions.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you feeling uncertain about how to prepare your students with disabilities for the transition to college?
As OTPs we want to equip students for life beyond the classroom, including their next steps after high school. In this episode, we’ll tackle the challenges that arise when students navigate the vastly different expectations and supports of college life. Annie will share important insights and practical strategies to help us support our students during this huge transition.
Listen to this episode to help empower your students for success beyond high school!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how school-based OTPs can support our students in the transition to college process
- Learners will identify a variety of services for their students, including assistive technology, employment support, and potential funding options for college, to help students prepare for their future
- Learners will understand the importance of fostering self-advocacy in students during their k-12 education
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you ever wondered how the knowledge you gain from a podcast can be effectively applied in real-world practice?
In this episode, Taylor Poirier, shares her insightful journey of how she has implemented what she’s learned from about 150 OT Schoolhouse podcast episodes into her everyday practice.
Tune in to discover the actionable steps she took, the resources she utilized, and the challenges she navigated to become a dynamic force in school-based occupational therapy.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify strategies for applying knowledge gained from podcast episodes.
- Learners will identify tips to guide new school-based occupational therapy practitioners.
- Learners will recognize ways to stay organized to be able to best implement podcast insights.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What if there was a tool that could not only help you organize your thoughts and observations into a comprehensive report but also save you hours of work each week?
Join us as Angela and Mani, the creators of Everbility, share how this game-changing tool for OTPs can streamline your documentation with customizable templates. Learn how the "brain dump" method can help you organize observations and save time, so you can focus more on supporting your students.
Tune in to learn more! Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the benefits of using AI tools like Everbility compared to traditional methods or other AI tools, such as ChatGPT, by focusing on template standardization, ease of use, and time savings.
- Learners will understand how the Everbility tool assists occupational therapists in organizing, editing, and formatting their notes and assessments into cohesive, structured documents.
Click here to check out Everbility.
Full disclosure: the OT Schoolhouse is an affiliate of Everbility, meaning that we might earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you use the links above and sign up for their service. We only work with brands that we feel can truly support therapists in an ethical and supportive manner. If you would prefer that we do not earn a commission, you can always head directly to everbility.com
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, the roles are switched as host Jayson Davies takes the guest seat, being interviewed by Abe Saffer, a federal lobbyist for the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Together, they discuss the power of advocacy in the OT profession. Learn about Jayson’s journey and the important role that AOTA plays in shaping education policy. Tune in to be inspired and find ways to take action!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the key roles that advocacy plays at different levels within the occupational therapy profession.
- Learners will understand the importance of engaging with AOTA and state organizations in ensuring that OT practitioners have a voice in legislative decisions.
Check out AOTA's Back to School page here
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Join us as we are diving into a topic that’s transforming the world of occupational therapy!
We all know how AI chatbots can help streamline paperwork and goal writing, but what if AI could do more?
Enter the Korro AI platform, a groundbreaking tool that goes beyond text to actually see and measure children’s body movements through camera motion capture. Imagine being able to track a student’s progress in real-time, right in your own classroom or therapy room!
Join us as we explore the incredible potential of AI in OT with two experts in the field, Dr. Karen Jacobs and Alyson Stover. So, whether you’re eager to stay at the cutting edge of your profession or just curious about the future of AI in OT, tune in to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the basic principles of how AI, specifically the Korro AI platform, can be applied with your own students.
- Learners will be able to identify specific ways they could integrate this AI into their own occupational therapy practice to improve interventions, and documentation.
- Learners will identify strategies for integrating this AI technology into their own occupational therapy practices to enhance observation accuracy and improve student outcomes.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, Jayson is diving into five mindset hacks that will change the way you approach your practice. Jayson will reflect on his own experiences and mindset shifts as a school-based OT, and provide practical advice for managing overwhelming caseloads and fostering open communication with administrators. Tune in to learn more!
This episode has many valuable insights, especially for the new graduates out there or those who are transitioning into school based OT. Let's dive in!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how to communicate concerns about caseload management to administrators effectively.
- Learners will gain the understanding to personalize various elements of the occupational therapy process to better suit their individual needs and those of their students.
- Learners will explore different ways to become more confident in their practice.
- Learners will understand how to leverage informal mentorship.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Join us as Jayson dives into a discussion with pediatric occupational therapist and author Kathryn Mahoney. With five books under her belt and a sixth in the works, Kathryn shares her journey of creating social stories for children that not only captivate them but also offer practical knowledge for adults.
**In this episode, learn methods for customizing social stories, understanding their impact on teachers, parents, and practitioners, and discover how these stories can make OT concepts more accessible, empowering parents to implement therapy techniques at home.
Listen now to gain valuable insights and enhance your therapeutic toolkit!**
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify methods and tools for creating social stories and how to easily customize them.
- Learners will understand the impact of OT strategies in social stories for teachers, parents, and other practitioners.
- Learners will understand how these social stories can make OT concepts more accessible and empower parents to advocate for and implement therapy techniques at home.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Send us a Text Message.
**Have you ever wondered how a podcast can evolve, grow, foster a community, and make a meaningful impact in the field of occupational therapy?
Join us as we celebrate the Journey of the OT Schoolhouse. In this special episode, we'll discuss the growing reach of our Back to School Conference and our vision to reduce the knowledge translation timeline in occupational therapy. You'll meet the dedicated team behind our success and hear our aspirations for the future. Don't miss this episode packed with gratitude, insights, and exciting updates for the OT community.**
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
Learners will describe the importance of accessible and simplified communication in the field of pediatric occupational therapy.
Learners will identify ways technology and AI can enhance their productivity.
Learners will recognize the essential role of community and collaboration in their ongoing professional growth.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Send us a Text Message.
**Have you ever wondered how a podcast can evolve, grow, foster a community, and make a meaningful impact in the field of occupational therapy?
Join us as we celebrate the Journey of the OT Schoolhouse. In this special episode, we'll discuss the growing reach of our Back to School Conference and our vision to reduce the knowledge translation timeline in occupational therapy. You'll meet the dedicated team behind our success and hear our aspirations for the future. Don't miss this episode packed with gratitude, insights, and exciting updates for the OT community.**
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
Learners will describe the importance of accessible and simplified communication in the field of pediatric occupational therapy.
Learners will identify ways technology and AI can enhance their productivity.
Learners will recognize the essential role of community and collaboration in their ongoing professional growth.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Send us a Text Message.
School-based occupational therapists wear many hats. Sometimes we treat students individually and other times we have to train the teachers in ways they can support students in the classroom.
In this greatest hits episode, Join Jayson & Jamie as they talk about supporting teachers in fostering safe and regulating environments in the classroom for students with sensory differences.
If you did not catch the original airing of this episode when it was released, or if you simply want to dive into a really good episode on how sensory processing impacts student participation, have a listen during your next walk, drive, or workout.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify what is our role in addressing sensory processing in school-based OT
- Learners will identify strategies that can be used to provide support to students with sensory differences in the classroom
- Learners will Determine what impact the sensory system has on student performance and engagement
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Send us a Text Message.
**Discover how the 3-to-1 service model can transform collaboration among OT, PT, and speech providers, streamline evaluations, and enhance communication with teachers and parents. In this episode, we'll dig into the scheduling and IEP logistical concerns that come with this model and explore strategies for successfully implementing it, including writing services onto the IEP.
Stay tuned as we uncover the impact of the 3-to-1 model on IEPs and highlight the importance of flexibility and creativity in delivering effective school-based OT services.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
* Learners will be able to identify the differences between the 3-to-1 model and the traditional one-time-a-week direct service model.
* Learners will identify the key benefits of the 3-to-1 service model in enhancing collaboration among OT, PT, and speech providers.
* Learners will identify strategies to manage their caseload effectively during flex weeks.**
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Send us a Text Message.
Abe Saffer and Dr. Miranda Virone are here to dive into the roots of occupational therapy’s involvement in mental health, uncover current challenges, and explore practical strategies for integrating effective mental health interventions in schools.
If you're looking to expand your impact and equip yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge to address these kinds of challenges, or are just curious about the evolution of school-based mental health strategies, this discussion is for you. Tune in to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify strategies for advocating the role of OT in mental health
- Learners will be able to apply strategies for integrating mental health interventions into their practice
- Learners will be able to analyze the biopsychosocial approach
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Thinking about working directly with schools or going through a staffing agency? Jayson and Elise explore the pros and cons of direct contracting vs. staffing agencies, and share insights to help you make informed decisions about your career path.
They discuss the nuances of being a 1099 subcontractor versus a W-2 employee, the non-therapy duties that often come with traditional employment, and the hard-to-navigate waters of rates, negotiation, and setting up clear, beneficial contracts. They will touch upon the importance of establishing boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain a fulfilling career.
Tune in to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the differences between contracting in a school and being a school employee
- Learners will understand the process for self-contracting and going through a staffing agency
- Learners will identify ways to find and negotiate a contract as a school-based therapist
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
How do children’s brains manage the interplay between self-regulation and executive functioning tasks?
In this episode, join Lindy Joffe, OTD, OTR/L as she discusses the interconnectedness between sensory and executive function. She will offer insight into the clinical observations that can unlock a better understanding of student behaviors and learn actionable strategies to empower our children as co-learners in their educational journey.
Tune in to understand the connection with executive functions and sensory regulation within school-based occupational therapy!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the relationship between child behavior, environment, and factors contributing to executive functioning
- Learners will understand how to empower the children as co learners and use interventions to reflect their unique needs
- Learners will identify practical assessment tools to use for executive functioning
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Do you think AI can revolutionize school-based OT?
In this episode, join expert guest Teresa Fair-Field as she explores innovative uses of artificial intelligence that are reshaping the way OTPs support students and clinical decision making.
Discover the collaborative efforts between clinicians and tech experts in developing predictive AI, and learn how these advancements can generate treatment plans and improve communication.
This episode is great for any school-based OT who wants to stay up to date, and utilize technology to enhance evidence-based practice and ultimately enrich student outcomes.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will recognize the ethical considerations of AI use
- Learners will understand the applications and implications of artificial intelligence in school-based occupational therapy
- Learners will identify strategies for integrating AI into clinical decision-making, IEP development, and treatment planning
View the full show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode147
Watch this episode on YouTube
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Imagine a school environment where every student, regardless of their abilities, can actively participate in physical education. How can we turn this into reality?
In today's episode, we are joined by Faith Newton, an occupational therapist based in England, who is passionate about inclusive physical education (PE) for students with special educational needs and disabilities.
In this episode, Faith will discuss the school-based occupational therapy system in the UK and how it compares to models in the US. She will also explore universal design principles and strategies for making PE more inclusive for all students. Tune in to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will Identify the key components of an inclusive PE program for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
- Learners will understand the role of occupational therapy in supporting neurodivergent students in physical education settings.
- Learners will understand how to conduct an activity analysis for common PE games like dodgeball to identify sensory, physical, cognitive, and emotional demands.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you thought that optimizing your practice with efficient goal banking strategies might be helpful?
In this episode, we explore a range of goal banking options, from simple PDFs to advanced spreadsheets, to help you streamline your process.
Join us as Jayson shares his journey and a practical six-step plan to create and utilize your personalized goals. Jayson also introduces the concept of templating goals and even offers a glimpse into the AI-powered solutions for creating reusable, searchable goals.
Don't miss out on this insightful episode to help you in your daily school-based practice!
Click here to check out the OT Schoolhouse Goal Bank
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the purpose and benefits of creating and using a goal bank for school-based OT
- Learners will understand the process of templatizing goals and customizing criteria and accommodations
- Learners will be able to apply strategies for organizing and categorizing goals to create their own goal templates.
View the full show notes & transcript
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Dive into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast's latest episode, where Jayson welcomes Amy Crosby, whose innovative application of the Kawa Model in education is cultivating an oasis of calm for educators amidst the tempest of school day chaos.
Join us as Amy reveals how a simple yet profound shift in supporting teachers can ripple into improved classroom dynamics and personal well-being, backed by her engaging workshop results.
Don't miss out on this insightful journey through the lens of the Kawa Model to cultivate professional and personal fulfillment for you and the teachers you serve.
Tune in, and let's navigate the turbulent waters of education together!
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and describe the core concepts of using the Kawa model to support teachers as introduced by Amy Crosby in school-based occupational therapy.
- Recognize the environmental and personal stress factors in educational settings that were highlighted during the workshop.
- Recall the strategies for stress reduction taught in the workshop, including deep breathing and thought reframing.
Click here to view the full show notes
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you curious to understand how OTPs can use AI?
Tune in as Jayson Davies, MA, OTR/L, dives into the future of AI and occupational therapy.
Discover how AI tools like Chat GPT can change your approach to evaluations, IEP planning, and beyond while ensuring ethical practice and preserving confidentiality.
Whether it's creating personalized goals, drafting treatment plans, or enhancing service delivery, Jayson discusses the potential of AI to level the playing field and optimize OT services.
Whether you're a tech-savvy OTP or an AI novice, this episode will educate, and inspire you to harness the power of AI in your daily practice.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify ways in which school-based practitioners can use AI to support themselves and their students.
- Learners will understand the role of AI and tools to assist in the development of treatment plans, documentation, and monitoring of student progress.
- Learners will identify the importance of ethical considerations and maintaining confidentiality when integrating AI into school-based practice.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Kelsey Kornaus delves into the world of visual impairments in students.
From the importance of self-advocacy to the impact of sensory difficulties and the role of assistive technology, this episode discusses the challenges and innovative strategies for supporting students with visual impairments in educational settings.
Listen now to gain valuable insights into assessment techniques, the decision-making process for residential placement, and the benefit of community support.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the role occupational therapy practitioners play in supporting students with visual impairments.
- Learners will identify challenges and considerations in working with students with visual impairments in educational settings, including the need for specific adaptations, support for sensory difficulties, and the integration of assistive technology and universal design for learning to facilitate academic success and independence.
- Learners will identify the importance of advocating for students with visual impairments in accessing necessary support and services.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
How can the strategic use of color and contrast in writing programs not only capture children's attention but also foster a focused environment for handwriting tasks?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, guest Helene Lieberman discusses her journey of developing a program, seeking feedback from colleagues, and making adjustments based on their input. The program features high-contrast laminated pages to reduce distractions, helping children with low vision and attention deficit disorder focus on writing tasks.
Join us as we explore the intersection of program development, collaborative feedback, and the pursuit of effective interventions!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the process and challenges involved in developing a program for school-based occupational therapy.
- Learners will identify the potential impact of creating evidence-based programs and interventions in school-based occupational therapy, including the benefits of pairing with academics to conduct formal research projects to evaluate the efficacy of interventions.
- Learners will identify the challenges and strategies for managing and collecting program data for multiple students in a school-based setting, and learn about the importance of keeping careful records and monitoring progress during therapy sessions.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this episode, special guest Lori Flynn is diving into multiple different aspects of understanding ADHD, creating personalized teaching plans, developing visual schedules, and fostering a supportive environment for every child.
We also discuss the challenges and the practical strategies that can assist. You'll be equipped with some tools to create a positive and inclusive learning environment. Join us as we explore these valuable insights and work towards making a real difference in the lives of these students!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the environmental Impact on ADHD Symptoms
- Learners will identify the pivotal role of individualized interventions in addressing the unique needs of students with ADHD.
- Learners will identify the overlap between sensory processing difficulties and ADHD, and distinguish between sensory interventions and breaks for children with ADHD.
- Learners will identify the need for collaborative support and individualized teaching plans for children with ADHD, and understand the importance of integrating visual aids, recognizing strengths, and providing clear accommodations for optimal support.
View the full show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode140
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Ever wondered about the transformative power of child-led methods in creating inclusive and empowered learning environments for students with special needs?
Dr. Amy Coopersmith is here to share with us how students receiving special education experience occupation deprivation and the important role of child-led decision-making and planning in occupational therapy. Through her own personal examples and strategies, she shows how these approaches can help foster independence and self-advocacy, ultimately unleashing these students' potential.
Tune in to hear more about many strategies, such as the use of choice boards, self-monitoring, and the "Captain Me" program.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the significance of establishing a least restrictive environment for children with disabilities to enhance their autonomy and learning opportunities.
- Learners will identify the importance of educators and occupational therapists actively listening to children, aiding them in formulating personal goals, and distinguishing between internally driven and externally imposed objectives to foster independence and empowerment.
- Learners will explore practical strategies for engaging children in decision-making, planning, and goal-setting within occupational therapy sessions, aiming to cultivate self-determination and independence.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
As a school-based Practitioner, have you ever thought about exploring alternatives to traditional pull-out sessions?
If you're looking to expand your scope of practice, increase work efficiency, and provide more individualized services in the least restrictive environment, tune into this episode.
Jayson dives into the benefits of working with students in their natural context, the different service models available, and how to implement them effectively. He discusses many areas from individual and group sessions, to collaboration and consultation with teachers and aides. Listen to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify ways to support students in the general education and least restrictive environment
- Learners will identify ways to build rapport with teachers
- Learners will understand the importance of natural context
- Learners will understand how to transition to different service models
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you aware of the hidden traumas that adolescents face daily that can sometimes go unnoticed?
In this episode Dr. Park sheds light on the subtle negative experiences that may go unnoticed but have a long-term impact on these young lives. The discussion also takes us beyond traditional understandings of trauma to recognize the broader spectrum that encompasses a sense of not belonging and exclusion due to identity-based microaggressions.
Join us as we uncover the impact of trauma on adolescents, discuss the importance of inclusive education, and foster a greater understanding of how OTPs can support those dealing with trauma in meaningful ways.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will gain an understanding of the different types of trauma experienced by adolescents and how these experiences impact their daily lives.
- Learners will explore practical strategies to create trauma-informed classrooms and inclusive environments that promote healing, growth, and resilience.
- Learners will develop a toolkit of evidence-based interventions and approaches that can be used to address the effects of trauma in school-based settings.
Wish you could earn professional development for listening to this episode?
Members of the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative can earn a certificate of completion by listening to this episode and completing a short quiz after logging in. Learn more about this at otschoolhouse.com/collab
Already a member?
Log into your account here to complete the quiz.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Do you ever walk away from an IEP meeting with a plan in mind, only to forget it later?
In this episode, Jayson Davies, MA, OTR/L, discusses why the IEP is not your treatment plan and the crucial differences between the two.
With actionable tips, and insights from the OTPF-4, Jayson explains why creating a treatment plan is essential and how it provides support, protection, and clear direction for OTPs.
Tune in now to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how the treatment plan is different than the IEP document
- Learners will understand what specific information is on a treatment plan
- Learners will identify ways to protect themselves legally
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Would you like to have a better understanding of integrated OT services in schools?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Dr. Woolley shares many insights on integrated OT services, the importance of understanding individual student needs, collaborating with teachers, and adapting interventions.
She shares valuable insights and strategies for creating an inclusive learning environment. From understanding different service delivery models to integrating multimodal teaching approaches. Tune in now to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will Identify how collaboration and effective communication between the OTPs and teachers is very important for successfully integrating OT services.
- Learners will identify strategies to integrate services into the classroom through collaboration, modeling techniques for teachers, and providing coaching.
- Learners will recognize the benefits of the co-teaching model and how it can help provide more effective services in the classroom.
- Learners will recognize the importance to be flexible and adapt approaches to meet the specific needs and culture of each school or classroom.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by Medicaid billing and unsure of how to navigate the funding process?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Elizabeth & Jason will dive into the world of Medicaid billing. You'll have a basic understanding of Medicaid billing and be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this vital aspect of our profession and have the knowledge to be able to advocate for more support from your supervisors.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will understand the process of Medicaid billing in schools
- Learners will identify how to advocate for support with your supervisors
- Learners will identify the importance of completing random moment time studies
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In today's episode, Lisa Lodesky and Kate Schoen discuss their experiences and insights on helping students transition into vocational settings. They share stories, challenges, and successes from their own programs they have created.
Discover the importance of providing diverse options for students, learn about the ability to be inclusive within a therapeutic day school, and gain insights into the transitioning process after graduation. Also, find out about innovative solutions in preparing students for their vocational journeys.
Get ready to be inspired and educated as we explore innovative solutions to prepare students for their vocational journeys Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the importance of providing vocational opportunities for students to discover interests
- Learners will understand how to involve the students and teachers to create a more effective learning environment
- Learners will identify the benefits of creating realistic job environments, such as a library stand or post office, to foster pre-vocational skills and engagement among students.
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Welcome to the Back to School Conference Recap!
Our journey at the conference led us to explore crucial subjects, such as reframing behavior, addressing mental health concerns, navigating post-school outcomes, discovering evidence-based resources, implementing effective tiered intervention programs, and expanding your toolkit for fine motor skills.
Join us as we delve into these topics and gain valuable insights to our knowledge in School-Based OT
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the significance of building rapport and safety
- Learners will recognize the importance of asking tough questions about a student's plan after graduation and the potential consequences of not considering long-term goals for students from an early age
- Learners will recognize the significance of evidence-based practice in occupational therapy in the school setting
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Curious to explore the world of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
Join us on this episode where Kate Nealon, PhD, CCC-SLP, BC-CLS and Zahava L. Friedman, PhD, OT, BCBA delve into the fascinating interplay and coexistence of CAS and SPD. Gain insights into the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration between OTPs and SLPs in supporting children.
Tune in now to broaden your understanding of CAS and SPD!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the key components of the sensory processing cycle and how breakdowns at different stages can contribute to Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
- Learners will identify the challenges in diagnosing children with mild to moderate Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) and Specific Language Impairment (SLD)
- The importance of early intervention and seeking support from a collaborative team of professionals when working with children with speech and sensory impairments.
Join me at 400+ other school-based OT practitioners at the Back to School Conference.
Ready to learn from six amazing OTPs and earn some AOTA-approved CEUs?
Click here to join me this August at the Back to School Conference! -----
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Celebrate the 2023 school-based OT practitioners of the year!
Join us in this episode, where we recognize the contributions of three exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond to support students, teachers, staff, and the profession. These three OTPs are receiving awards from the OT Schoolhouse for impacting the 2020 to 2023 school years as OTPs.
Tune in to hear their inspiring stories, and click here to learn more about them.
Join me at 400+ other school-based OT practitioners at the Back to School Conference.
Ready to learn from six amazing OTPs and earn some AOTA-approved CEUs?
Click here to join me this August at the Back to School Conference! -----
Why do you love school-based OT?
In this episode, Jayson Davies, MA, OTR/L, explores the world of school-based occupational therapy by highlighting the many advantages of being a school-based OTP. Jayson shares his experiences and insights, highlighting the power of collaboration, the importance of a student’s natural context, and advocating not only for the students but also for ourselves as OTPs.
Tune in to learn more about the ways occupational therapy transforms the lives of students.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the difference between school-based OT and clinic-based OT
- Learners will identify how to collaborate on a systems or classroom level
- Learners will recognize how modifications, accommodations, and assistive technology are used in a school setting
- Learners will recognize ways to advocate for students and themselves as OTPs
Join me at 400+ other school-based OT practitioners at the Back to School Conference.
Ready to learn from six amazing OTPs and earn some AOTA-approved CEUs?
Click here to join me this August at the Back to School Conference! -----
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Ready to transform your classroom into an engaging and supportive learning environment?
Join us on this episode, where we explore the topic of setting up the classroom for success with Kelly Wilk-Downs.
Discover important tips and strategies to optimize the learning environment, from creating individual workspaces to mastering sound and lighting. Kelly also introduces the TEACCH method, a tool that benefits not only children with autism and ADHD but all students.
As occupational therapy practitioners, we can collaborate with teachers and administrators to implement these changes and facilitate student learning.
Tune in to hear more about how design affects the classroom environment!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify strategies for creating individual workspaces that meet the needs of different students.
- Learners will identify the benefits of using visual supports, work systems, & sensory strategies within a classroom
- Learners will identify and understand the importance of classroom design in promoting structure and student success.
Are you a member of the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative?
Members of the OTS Collaborative can earn a certificate of completion for listening to this course and taking a quiz. Click here to learn more.
View the full show notes here.
Ready to learn from six amazing OTPs and earn some AOTA-approved CEUs?
Click here to join me this August at the Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
On this episode of OT Schoolhouse Podcast, host Jayson Davies, MA, OTR/L, welcomes guest Jenna Rufo, Ed.D., to discuss post-pandemic special education.
Jenna shares her philosophy on education and inclusion, offering strategies on how to get administrators on board with an inclusive approach. As an educator with over 20 years of experience, Rufo also emphasizes the importance of parent interaction and the role of OTs in providing support to students in areas such as executive functioning and fine motor skills.
Rufo also highlights positive outcomes of virtual learning during the pandemic, including increased collaboration among teachers and parents and a greater understanding of individual student needs. Tune in to this informative episode for practical tips on creating more inclusive schools and supporting all students.
Click here to view the full show notes.
Ready to learn from six amazing OTPs and earn some AOTA-approved CEUs?
Click here to join me this August at the Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you heard of the Kawa model?
On this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, We'll discuss the advantages of understanding this model for occupational therapy practitioners. Dr. Iwama talks about the interrelatedness of the different factors contributing to a person's well-being and performance through the metaphor of a river.
We'll learn about how cultural differences impact the concept of occupation, and how the Kawa model emerged. Additionally, we discuss how occupational therapy practitioners can identify where the clients' water flows and work with their strengths to overcome obstacles.
Tune in to learn more!
View the full show notes here.
Ready to learn from six amazing OTPs and earn some AOTA-approved CEUs?
Click here to join me this August at the Back to School Conference!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
How much do you really know about dyslexia?
Join us as we explore this often-misunderstood learning disorder. Jayson and Penny dive into the importance of evaluation, therapy, and the crucial support needed for teachers and students facing dyslexia. Tune in to learn more!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the ties between dyslexia and mental health
- Learners will identify what dyslexia is and the common misconceptions.
- Learners will identify effective teaching strategies for supporting students with dyslexia in the classroom.
Earn Continuing Education
Members of the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative can earn 1 hour of professional development by listening to this episode and taking the quiz inside the community.
OTS Collab members, click here to log in and take your quiz
Not a member? Sign up here to start earning CEUs.
Timestamps
[00:07:16] Understanding Dysgraphia and Dyslexia with Penny Stack.
[00:10:32] Podcast Creator Chooses Talking Over Writing
[00:13:31] Dyslexia: More than Just Poor Grades
[00:16:47] Experts discuss diagnosing dyslexia: professionals and tests
[00:23:35] Choosing Assessments for Visual Processing Skills
[00:36:06] Dyslexia hint
[00:38:37] Children's Perspectives Often Overlooked in Education
[00:43:59] Teachers crave OTP support; students may mask dyslexia
[00:52:02] The Hidden Impacts of Dyslexia Beyond Reading
[00:57:29] Creating a Supportive Community for Dyslexia
[00:58:26] Wrap-Up of OT Schoolhouse Episode 125
View the full show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode125
Looking for more sensory and movement support? Visit Harlkla.com/otschoolhouse
A big thank you to Harkla for sponsoring the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to create a sensory-friendly environment and provide targeted support to your students with Harkla.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
In this podcast episode, Maggie Aschenbrener discusses how she applies her passions for water, children, and occupational therapy by utilizing aquatic therapy in a school-based setting. In addition, she shares valuable insights on the benefits of aquatic therapy, the types of individuals who can benefit from it, and how occupational therapy practitioners can incorporate it into their practice.
This podcast episode is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about aquatic therapy or incorporating it into their occupational therapy practice. It provides both inspiration and practical guidance on how to make the most of this modality.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Identify key benefits of aquatic therapy for individuals with a variety of conditions.
- Identify specific populations that could benefit from aquatic therapy.
- Identify potential opportunities to incorporate aquatic therapy into school-based occupational therapy services.
Click here to view the full show notes
Looking for more sensory and movement support? Visit Harlkla.com/otschoolhouse
A big thank you to Harkla for sponsoring the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to create a sensory-friendly environment and provide targeted support to your students with Harkla.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Ready to talk All Things Sensory?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse podcast, Jayson interviews Rachel Harrington, COTA/L AC, and Jessica Hill, COTA/L, about incorporating movement and sensory activities in the classroom and at home.
We discuss sensory diets, fidgets, primitive reflexes, and other strategies for supporting children with sensory needs. Jessica and Rachel also share practical tips for teachers, parents, and caregivers on how to create a sensory-friendly environment and promote self-regulation.
Just hit play!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learn how sensory diets can help children regulate their sensory input throughout the day.
- Learn how fidgets can be a helpful tool for children who need to move or have tactile stimulation.
- Identify how primitive reflexes can impact a child's development and should be addressed through movement activities.
- Learn how you can help teachers to incorporate movement breaks into their lessons to help students stay focused.
Resources:
- The All Things Sensory Podcast
- Harkla.co
- The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz (Affiliate link)
- Primitive Reflex Integration Course by Rachel Harrington
Click here to view the full show notes
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Welcome to a special episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, where we celebrate OT Month and the anniversary of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast!
We're excited to bring you an episode packed with valuable insights, as Jayson answers questions submitted by our listeners.
Tune in as we cover a variety of topics related to OT, such as creative contests for school-aged students, strategies to help parents prepare for changes in their child's OT services, the use of sensory checklists, and tips for becoming a more confident OT practitioner.
We'd like to extend a big thank you to all those who submitted their questions and helped make this episode possible. So sit back, relax, and let's dive in!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify how to help build confidence as a new practitioner
- Learners will identify strategies to help parents prepare for dismissal from OT services
- Learners will identify how to utilize Sensory Checklists in an educational setting.
Resources
- The Sensational Brain Sensory Checklist
- Effects of Weighted Vests on the Engagement of Children With Developmental Delays and Autism
- Systematic Review- ADHD & Autism Efficacy of Weighted Vests
- Choosing Wisely- AOTA List- Sensory-Based Interventions
- STAR for School Course
- OT Schoolhouse Podcast Ep 26 - Sensory Integration Treatment and Sensory Strategies in Schools Feat. Kelly Auld-Wright
- OT Schoolhouse Podcast Ep 64 - Sensory, Stress, & Behavior with Olivia Martinez Hauge
- OT Schoolhouse Podcast EP 89 - Handwriting and Beyond in School-Based OT Podcast Episode
- OT Schoolhouse Podcast EP 116 - Challenging Typical Handwriting Traditions Podcast Episode
- Article on Self Regulation & ACEs
Click here to view the full show notes.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Do you ever wonder how much our early reflexes impact our physical, cognitive, and emotional development? What about the importance of reflex integration and rhythmic movements in shaping these abilities?
In this episode, Sonia Story sheds light on these intriguing connections and explains why reflex integration is critical for a child's growth and development.
Get ready to rethink the role of reflexes and discover the fascinating world of neurological soft signs and sensory integration.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify neurological soft signs and what happens when they are inhibited
- Learners will identify how sensory integration and retained reflexes are connected
- Learners will identify why reflex integration is such a fundamental foundational system of movements
Resources (May be affiliate links)
Watch this episode on YouTube
Get your Free Supporting Evidence E-Book
Get the Infant Reflexes Chart
Brain & Sensory Foundation Course - Use discount code: OTSH30OFF by April 30, 2023
Thanks for listening. Click here to view the full show note
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Are you an OT who wants to level up your knowledge on how to work collaboratively with SLPs to support students in school? Well, you're in for a treat!
Today's episode features a special guest, Rose, a school-based speech therapist and Founder of ABA SPEECH. She will share her wisdom on the important role that SLPs play in schools and how OTPs can collaborate with SLPs to provide the best possible support for students.
Tune in to learn more!
View the Show Notes for all the resources mentioned.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Do you know how your engine is running right now? Is it high, low, or just right?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Sherry and Molly discuss the OG self-regulation program that helps all ages understand their alertness. Using analogies that The Alert Program® utilizes helps people understand their alertness in an easily comprehensible way.
View the full show note at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode119
The Alert program is a registered trademark of TherapyWorks, Inc.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Today, we're talking about one of the most popular and versatile tools in the world of school-based occupational therapy: LEGO.
That's right, we're diving into the benefits of using LEGO in therapy sessions. LEGO provides a fun and engaging way to help children reach their therapy goals by improving fine motor skills and promoting creativity and problem-solving.
Listen in to hear nine different ways you can support educational tasks using LEGO blocks as your therapy modality.
View the full show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode118
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Being OTPs in a Teacher’s world is not always easy. In this episode, I am sharing a supportive tool I have used to support my students and build rapport with the teachers I work with daily.
I have provided small and large group collaborative in-services for teachers since my third year in school-based OT, so I am excited to share with you some research that supports this strategy for all of the reasons I know and love.
Listen in to hear how you can use live and recorded in-services to support teachers, students, and yourself.
View the show notes OTSchoolhouse.com/episode117
Resources
- Read the full article here (a subscription may be required)
- Join OTS Collaborative, where you can earn professional development and get support implementing best practices in school-based OT.
- Article Citation
- Jamie Mac Donald & Heidi Baist (2022) Using Virtual Collaboration and Education to Increase Teachers’ Ability to Promote Self-regulation, Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 15:4, 403-417, DOI: 10.1080/19411243.2021.1983497
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you ever thought of having your students be the handwriting teachers?
By having students apply what they learned during an OT session, they can go back into the classroom to share the letter stories and formations with everyone… including the teacher! This is a great functional way to help them solidify what they learned.
Today, Cheryl Bregman is here to discuss some common handwriting norms on which she is flipping the script. We also dive into how children have been affected with dysgraphia and pseudo dysgraphia and how a collaborative approach can help.
Tune in to learn about an awesome handwriting program Cheryl has created that can help a child learn to write in five weeks!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify why it is beneficial to start with learning lowercase letters
- Learners will identify the reasons children may present with pseudo dysgraphia
- Learners will identify and understand how reading and writing collide and impact one another
- Learners will identify how handwriting heroes use a multi-sensory approach and how it benefits all children, especially those with learning disabilities.
- Learners will identify specific assessments that do not correlate with handwriting outcomes.
Click here to view the full show notes, including the resources mentioned in this episode.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
What do you think of when you hear the phrase trauma responsive?
This concept goes beyond trauma-informed care. Tune in to hear Dr. Gibbs speak about her book, Trauma Treatment in Action, and how as OTPs, we need to be more responsive to the needs of a client regarding their mental health, just as if we were working with someone who had a stroke or other physical ailment.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the five dimensions of trauma and how to use these in practice
- Learners will identify what ACTION is and how it can be used in OT
- Learners will identify how an OTP can address mental health with a student
Click here to view the full show notes, including links to resources mentioned in this episode.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Did you know that Einstein and Thomas Edison may have had dysgraphia?
In our chat with Cheri Dotterer today, she discusses the truth about dysgraphia. A lot of us have had specific beliefs about what dysgraphia consists of, but the true definition may surprise you. She also explores the different types of dysgraphia and bilateral integration, which include interlaced, symmetrical, and asymmetrical.
Tune in to learn even more about dysgraphia, and the results of a 6-week handwriting club focused on visual perception, visual motor, and memory with limited pencil use.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the different tiers and types of dysgraphia
- Learners will identify the different types of bilateral integration
- Learners will identify two-minute interventions that address the core components of writing
Click here to view the full show notes
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Have you ever thought about what it might look like working with transition-aged students? Even if you are currently working with them now, you may still question how to best use your skills to work with these older school-aged students effectively.
Today, we are speaking with Justin Lundstedt, OTR/L, where he will discuss many areas of TAS and executive functioning. Tune in to learn how you can help these students find motivation and success in their life outside of school.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify what transition-aged students are
- Learners will identify how OTPs can work with transition-aged students
- Learners will identify how the domains of the OTPF-4 play a role in transition-aged students
Click here to view the full show notes and resources for this episode.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Were you flabbergasted when the CDC changed the guidelines for developmental milestones In February?
You weren’t alone. But it is important to look deeper at why these changes were made. The CDC was tasked with updating the milestones and making them less confusing for those who rely on them most - parents. The milestones are still (mostly) the same, and they are backed by research, as we discuss with Dr. Kate Barlow, OTD, OTR/L, IMH-E®, in the episode.
Kate is an ambassador for the CDC, and she talks to us about the milestones established for the first five years of a child's life. Kate describes why this is important for us OTPs that are in schools. Tune in to find out why!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify what the developmental monitor program is used for
- Learners will identify why the 75th percentile is no longer included on the CDC milestones checklist
- Learners will identify how the CDC milestones app can be used by OTPs
View the full show notes, including a resource list from the episode, at otschoolhouse.com/episode112
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
Were you flabbergasted when the CDC changed the guidelines for developmental milestones In February?
You weren’t alone. But it is important to look deeper at why these changes were made. The CDC was tasked with updating the milestones and making them less confusing for those who rely on them most - parents. The milestones are still (mostly) the same, and they are backed by research, as we discuss with Dr. Kate Barlow, OTD, OTR/L, IMH-E®, in the episode.
Kate is an ambassador for the CDC, and she talks to us about the milestones established for the first five years of a child's life. Kate describes why this is important for us OTPs that are in schools. Tune in to find out why!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify what the developmental monitor program is used for
- Learners will identify why the 75th percentile is no longer included on the CDC milestones checklist
- Learners will identify how the CDC milestones app can be used by OTPs
View the full show notes, including a resource list from the episode, at otschoolhouse.com/episode112
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
As OTPs we were taught that our profession was founded on providing a safe space for those who had a mental illness, and we were there to help them engage in occupations that were meaningful to them, yet we tend to forget the importance of this.
Today, we speak with Moni Keen to address her capstone research that addressed being an interprofessional team member and mental health in school-aged children. OTPs are often not seen as mental health providers, but we need to advocate and change that narrative.
Tune in to learn how we can advocate for mental health and how we can address mental health individually with our students and on a systems level.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify reasons why mental health is not being addressed in schools
- Learners will identify why OTPs are not labeled as mental health providers
- Learners will identify mental health diagnoses of school-aged children and youth
- Learners will identify and reflect on the causes of mental health issues among our students
- Learners will identify how to advocate for mental health in OT
- Learners will identify how to advocate for students on a systems level
Click here to view the full show notes including mentioned resources.
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episodes at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!
School-based OT practitioners are not handwriting teachers! However, handwriting is often the most common reason for referral.
In our chat with Debra Collette, OTD, OTR/L, we are discussing a recent article where she surveyed teachers, administrators, and therapists on the missing pieces of handwriting in schools. Ten years ago, common core began to take over school standards, but the standards neglected to include handwriting. Tune in to learn how common core standards have impacted handwriting and how you can support students and teachers in implementing a handwriting curriculum.
Tune in to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify the connects and disconnects between the common core curriculum with handwriting
- Learners will identify the impact common core has made on children’s written expression
- Learners will identify how common core and handwriting can impact OTPs
- Learners will identify what OTPs can do to support curriculum and handwriting on a systems level
Earn Continuing Education for Listening to this Episode
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Click here to purchase the professional development opportunity that corresponds to this episode.
View the complete show note at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode110
Did you know that transitional services can be implemented even before a student gets to high school?
In this episode, we talk about how community-based instruction (CBI) can be implemented in the elementary school setting and how these children benefit greatly from starting early. Debbie Schwind discusses how she developed a campus-based CBI program for the students with just a coffee cart and how the program grew with the help of supportive teachers, staff, and administrators.
Tune in to learn the following objectives:
- Learners will identify what community-based instruction looks like in an elementary school setting
- Learners will identify a model that can help with CBI program development
- Learners will identify the benefits of a CBI program
Earn your certificate of completion for episode 109 now
View the show notes
Have you ever thought about the shifts that have happened throughout the history of Occupational Therapy in the schools? Occupational therapy has been a part of the school systems since the ‘70s when legislation was enacted at the national level.
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, we will discuss several shifts in this field within the past 40 years.
Our guest today is Julie Bissell, one of the occupational therapists who jumped into the schools early on to address the educational model in schools. Julie discusses transitioning from a medical model to an educational model and shares how we can facilitate participation and help the children perform in the least restrictive environment.
We will also discuss an article she co-wrote titled Frameworks, Models and Trends in School-Based. This publication discusses a few frameworks within occupational therapy and relates them specifically to school-based practices in individual states and the United States. Also, stay tuned as she enlightens us about an Israeli handwriting assessment and how she assisted in translating this fun card game into English.
Click here to earn a certificate of completion after listening to this episode.
View the show resources and learn how to earn your certificate for listening at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode108
Our guest today proves how it is possible to make the best of a situation when unforeseen circumstances happen. The Covid Pandemic derailed Alvin from starting his private practice. Still, it allowed him to build up his social media and do something he enjoys, video editing. He has created videos to share with others about occupational therapy and his “P.L.A.Y on the Go Approach.” He shares content about treatment approaches, occupational balance, and self-care. He even shares his “Toy Tuesday,” in which he shares different ways to use games that have easy accessibility in therapy rooms or clinics.
Learn how you can earn continuing education for listening to this episode
Click here to learn more and register for the Back to School Conference.
As OTP’s we know that goal writing can get a bit difficult at times. Understanding each component of a goal will ultimately lead to better goal writing. Taking the time to write goals is a huge part of helping the students and other people involved see what progress has been made.
Today we are speaking with Sarah Beaulieu, MOT, OTR/L. and Emily Deller, MOT, OTR/L. They are speaking in-depth about their experience with goal writing in their districts and how it can differ in different districts and states. If you struggle with writing goals in a school-based setting, their goal writing workshop can help with mastering SMART, client-centered goals that are easy to measure.
Tune in to learn the following objectives:
- Listeners will learn about SMART goals
- Listeners will learn the key components to writing a great goal
- Listeners will learn how goals differ in a school-based setting and a pediatric clinic setting
- Listeners will learn more about the long-term and short-term goals in the school-based setting
- Listeners will learn more about changing and updating goals in a school-based setting
- Listeners will learn how to write more collaborative goals
View the full show notes, including the shared resources, at otschoolhouse.com/episode106
As an OT practitioner in the schools, it doesn’t take long to realize that most of the evaluation referrals coming your way are due to handwriting concerns. As such, you have probably begun to fine-tune your ability to promote increased fine motor, visual motor, and manual dexterity skills.
But another way to address handwriting is through adapting the environment and using tools to support students’ ability to learn handwriting in a new way.
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, I want to introduce you to an adapted paper I developed over 5 years and still recommend to parents and teachers today. I also want to give it to you for free so that you can use and share it as well.
Have a listen to learn the following objectives:
- Learn about common types of adapted paper used by School-Based OTPs
- Learn why and how I decided to create Gray-Space Paper
- Learn how to use Gray-Space Paper to support students with handwriting difficulties
View all of the shared resources for this episode at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode105
As OTPs in the schools, we all work with children with Sensory Processing Disorder. But our guest today has gone a step further in how she supports the families of neurodiverse children. Laura Petix, MS, OTR/L, dives into her passion for helping parents gain the tools they need to understand information and strategies to help their children. She has even used these tools in her personal life with her daughter Liliana.
Tune in to learn the following objectives:
- Listeners will learn about multiple resources for children with SPD
- Listeners will learn what social stories are, and how they benefit many children with anxiety and SPD
- Listeners will learn about the “Just right Challenge” for common sensory triggers
Click here to view the full show notes including the resources mentioned and impactful quotes from this episode.
Are you constantly wondering how to be more evidence-based when working in a school setting?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, we discuss how using client-centered top-down approaches will allow for more evidence-based practices and what top-down approaches look like with children in the schools. We are speaking with the creator of the CO-OP approach, Helene Polatajko, Ph.D., OT Reg. (Ont.), OT(C), FCAOT, FCAHS, OC, and the creator of “A Guide for Implementation: Using the Principles of CO-OP to Frame a Top-Down Approach with School-Aged Children,” Lara Collins Barros, OTD, OTR/L.
What you’ll Learn
- Listeners will learn the principles and guidelines of the CO-OP approach
- Listeners will learn how the CO-OP was developed
- Listeners will learn the difference between the behavioral approach and the cognitive approach
- Listeners will learn more about top-down approaches
- Listeners will learn about guided discovery and what a supportive adult is
Resources
CO-OP approach website
TEDx - The Problem with Cookie-Cutter Therapy
University of Toronto course
(CO-OP) Principles for Participation A Guide for Implementation: Using the Principles of CO-OP to Frame a Top-Down Approach with School-Aged Children
Developmental Coordination Disorder - CanChild.ca
View and listen to all episodes of the OT Schoolhouse website at otschoolhouse.com/podcast
Are you a new grad OT practitioner ready to find your first school-based OT job? If so, hit play now!
In this episode, I am interviewing Jhenny Rivera about her recent experiences of searching for, finding, interviewing, and starting in a school-based OT position as a new grad OT.
Jhenny graduated from OT school in the summer of 2021, passed the OT boards in the fall, and landed her first school-based OT job in January of 2022. That is why I have asked her to come on the OT Schoolhouse Podcast to share how she achieved her goal and what she learned in the process. We talk not only about the hiring process but also about what the first few months were like as a new grad school-based OT.
I hope you enjoy this episode.
Learn more about the Back to School Conference and save 10% with promo code PODCAST
In OT school, most students are tasked with doing a deep dive into the OT Practice Framework, better known as the OTPF. But have you taken a second to reflect on the OTPF since you landed your school-based OT job?
It is important to periodically go back and review your practice as it relates to the OTPF, especially when it is updated (like it was in 2020).
In today's episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, we are taking a look at the OTPF and how school-based OT fits within the OT Framework with two of AOTA's Commission on Practice members who helped to write the most recent iteration of the OT Practice Framework.
Joining us today, we have Susan M. Cahill Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, and Julie Miller MOT, OTR/L, SWC. Susan and Julie are both lifelong OTPs who love our field and have volunteered with AOTA in a number of ways. Have a listen to learn more about Susan and Julie and hear how the OTPF-4 came to be and how school-based OT fits into the equation.
Learn more about the Back to School Conference and save 10% with promo code PODCAST
For our 100th episode, we are celebrating in a very special way. I don't want to give away too much, so I'll just tell you this. You may already be pretty familiar with our special guest today.
Listen in to see who our mystery guest is and learn more about the OT Schoolhouse.
To celebrate OT Month, the #ABCsofOT are taking over the OT Schoolhouse Podcast for the month of April. More specifically, we are taking on the ABCs of School-Based OT
In this fourth episode in a four-part series, we will be expanding on the letters U-Z and how they relate to school-based OT.
The ABCs of SBOT are brought to you by the A-Z school-based OT Course from the OT Schoolhouse. Learn more about the course to help you be a more confident school-based OT at OTSchoolhouse.com/a2z
Registration is also now open for the OT Schoolhouse Back to School Conference coming up in August. Learn more and register at OTSchoolhouse.com/conference
To celebrate OT Month, the #ABCsofOT are taking over the OT Schoolhouse Podcast for the month of April. More specifically, we are taking on the ABCs of School-Based OT
In this third episode in a four-part series, we will be expanding on the letters N-T and how they relate to school-based OT.
The ABCs of SBOT are brought to you by the A-Z school-based OT Course from the OT Schoolhouse. Learn more about the course to help you be a more confident school-based OT at OTSchoolhouse.com/a2z
Registration is also now open for the OT Schoolhouse Back to School Conference coming up in August. Learn more and register at OTSchoolhouse.com/conference
To celebrate OT Month, the #ABCsofOT are taking over the OT Schoolhouse Podcast for the month of April. More specifically, we are taking on the ABCs of School-Based OT
In this second episode of a four-part series, we will be expanding on the letters G-M and how they relate to school-based OT.
The ABCs of SBOT are brought to you by the A-Z school-based OT Course from the OT Schoolhouse. Learn more about the course to help you be a more confident school-based OT at OTSchoolhouse.com/a2z
Registration is also now open for the OT Schoolhouse Back to School Conference coming up in August. Learn more and register at OTSchoolhouse.com/conference
Happy OT Month!
To celebrate, the #ABCsofOT are taking over the OT Schoolhouse Podcast for the month of April. More specifically, we are taking on the ABCs of School-Based OT
In this first episode of a four-part series, we will be expanding on the letters A-F and how they relate to school-based OT. Over the next four weeks, we will cover the entire alphabet and share some terms, concepts, and ideas related to school-based Occupational Therapy.
The ABCs of SBOT are brought to you by the A-Z school-based OT Course from the OT Schoolhouse. Learn more about the course to help you be a more confident school-based OT at OTSchoolhouse.com/a2z
Registration is also now open for the OT Schoolhouse Back to School Conference coming up in August. Learn more and register at OTSchoolhouse.com/conference
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, I am answering the questions submitted by several of our OT Schoolhouse Podcast listeners.
From "what is a consult?" to "how do I implement sensory strategies?" I am answering a dozen questions that were submitted by OT practitioners that work in the schools and listen to the OT Schoolhouse Podcast just like you.
Listen in to hear how I respond to these listener-submitted questions.
A special thank you to all of those who submitted a question and made this episode possible!
View the resources mentioned at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode95
Today on the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, we are talking about OT Month coming up in April. Why are we doing this in March, you ask? Because OT Month is worth planning for, of course!
In this episode, I am going to share with you 10 ways you can celebrate and promote our fantastic occupation in a serving manner (because that is what we do here at the OT Schoolhouse. We serve first. 🤝)
Be sure to head over to the show notes for a free set of handouts you can use on your campuses during the month of April to help spread the word. I also have all 10 ideas listed out there for you as a quick reference.
Enjoy the episode!
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, we are joined by Angela Provenzano, OTD Student, to discuss kinship families and what we should know as school-based OTs who support students who may be a part of a kinship family.
Angela is going to share her experiences as being a member of a kinship family, what the research says about both the children and the guardians in kinship families, and how she is now supporting those who find themselves as kinship guardians.
For more information, be sure to check out the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode93
In this episode of the OT schoolhouse podcast, we discuss mindfulness in school-based OT with Dr. Deirdre Azzopardi of TheMindfulSchoolOT.com.
Dierdre is an experienced school-based OT who has been incorporating mindful practices into her life personally and professionally. She uses mindfulness to support students, teachers, and administrators in her school district and has seen the benefits.
If you are unsure of what mindfulness fully entails or are already on board the mindfulness train and want to get some insight into how you can incorporate it into your sessions, be sure to listen to this episode.
View the resources mentioned & a transcript of this episode at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode92
Our role in special education was established in 1775 with the passing of The Education for All Handicapped Children Act. A lot has changed since then and we now have what is called the Every Student Succeeds Act, or ESSA.
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, we are welcoming Abe Saffer, MPM. Abe is the Senior Legislative Representative for AOTA and I asked him to come on the show to share with us how laws created and updated in Washington D.C. impact us as practicing school-based OTs.
Specifically, we will be discussing how IDEA differs from the Every Student Succeeds Act and what it means for us as OTPs, both now and in the coming years.
Listen in to better understand your role as a school-based OT.
View the show notes and a transcript of this episode at otschoolhouse.com/episode91
During the pandemic, teletherapy found its foothold as the world shut down and continues to now reopen. However, despite schools and businesses reopening, this is just the beginning of the story for occupational therapy and the doors that have opened in the world of teletherapy.
In today’s episode, we are talking with Occupational Therapist, Tasha Holmes, and Speech Pathologist, Kristin Martinez, from PresenceLearning. PresenceLearning is one of the largest providers of teletherapy services and in this episode, we are going to learn how they adapted during the pandemic and where they see teletherapy headed as the world continues to become more emerged in technology.
Join us and we explore the future of teletherapy with Kristin Martinez, M.A., CCC-SLP & Tasha Holmes, MOT, OTR/L
Listen to the full episode and view a transcript of the episode at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode90
In this episode of the OT School House Podcast, we have a very special guest with decades of experience in helping therapists, teachers, and adults around the world to support students with handwriting difficulties.
Dr. Bev is a nationally recognized speaker with 43+ years of experience as an Occupational Therapist. As a school therapist, she serviced more than fifteen school districts, visiting over 60 individual schools. She has experienced the shift of practice in the schools over the years and shares her knowledge with us in this interview.
A creative entrepreneur, determined researcher, and tireless professional, she is also the author of The Size Matters Handwriting Program. Currently used in every state and 5 continents, its concept-driven approach to teaching and remediating handwriting has been proven effective at a .001 level of significance in the largest research study ever done on handwriting.
I am excited to have Dr. Moskowitz joining us to talk about all things School-Based OT.
This interview was recorded on a youtube live video. If you would like to view the recorded video, you can do so at otschoolhouse.com/episode89
School-based Occupational therapists have been a part of public education since legislation was initially enacted in the 1970’s. Contrary to this, school-based OT practitioners often do not have pathways to educational leadership. OT practitioners are unable to serve as administrators within a school system in 46 states in the United States.
In this special episode of the OTSH Podcast, we will explore the unique qualities that OT practitioners possess that support leadership roles within a school system. Barriers to advancing into leadership positions (e.g., policy) OT practitioners’ face will be identified, and solutions will be discussed.
View the show notes and watch the video recording of this presentation at otschoolhouse.com/episode88
School-based occupational therapists wear many hats. Sometimes we treat students individually and other times we have to train the teachers in ways they can support students in the classroom.
Today, we are focusing on supporting teachers in fostering safe and regulating environments in the classroom for students with sensory differences.
Joining me today to discuss this topic is Dr. Jamie Chaves, OTD, OTR/L, SWC. Dr. Chaves is a pediatric occupational therapist and is also the OT Division Leader at the Center For Connection. Along with co-author, Ashley Taylor, Psy.D., Dr. Chaves has written two books to support therapists and educators working with students who have sensory differences.
You can find both books on Amazon. They are titled “The Why Behind Behaviors” and “Creating Sensory Smart Classrooms”
***Affiliate links included help the OT School House to earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
View the full show notes including resources mentioned in this episode at otschoolhouse.com/episode87**
In this journal club edition of the OT School House Podcast, we are examining the 2020 Seruya & Garfinkle article about current workload trends in school-based OT.
We will discuss the findings from a survey of 571 OT Practitioners working in the schools just like you and talk about the real-life implications your caseload can have on your practice as an OT practitioner in the schools.
Spoiler alert: Your Caseload is likely holding you back, but listen in to hear how you are not alone and what steps you can take to move forward.
Also, stay tuned until the end for a special announcement and giveaway from Jayson.
Learn more about the Making the Shift: Caseload to Workload Workshop at OTSchoolHouse.com/maketheshift
View the full show notes at otscholhouse.com/episode86
In this episode, I am bringing on Meghan Fox, OTR/L, from Wootherapy.com to talk about her transition from providing primarily pull-out OT services, to a more collaborative service approach.
Meghan shares with us why she decided to make the move and what those collaborative services look like. Also, she gets very real with us and shares what is (and is not) working during the transition.
There will always be students who need pull-out services, but there will also be students who learn best from in-class, contextually relevant services. So let's talk about how we do that.
Listen in for more and check out the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode85
Help! I was just assigned to a high school & I have no idea what to do!!
Ever had that thought before? It is not uncommon for me to receive an email with something like that in my inbox.
Now, I am no specialist in providing OT in high schools, but just like you, I can read some articles and listen to others who have done it before to learn from them.
In this episode, I am sharing my experiences from working at the high school level and also what I learned from two recent articles about OTs providing Post Secondary Transitional (PSTP) Services.
Check it out!
The 2 articles:
- Doris Pierce, Amy Spence, Lisa Sakemiller & Celeste Roberts (2021) School-based Transition Readiness Services for Adolescents with Disabilities, Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 14:2, 207-224, DOI: 10.1080/19411243.2020.1835601
- Pierce D, Sakemiller L, Spence A, LoBianco T. Effectiveness of Transition Readiness Interventions by School-Based Occupational Therapy Personnel. OTJR: Occupation, Participation and Health. 2020;40(1):27-35. doi:10.1177/1539449219850129
In this episode, Jayson shares the difference between screenings and evaluations. Using AOTA documents, IDEA references, and court cases, we will discuss when it is and is not appropriate to use screenings in a school-based setting. We will also briefly discuss how to ensure that your using a top-down approach when completing evaluations.
View the transcript and resources tied to this episode at otschoolhouse.com/episode83
Have you ever wondered if that handwriting intervention you provide is helpful? Or how about what that intervention in the research article actually looked like?
In this episode of the OT School House Podcast, we are going beyond the article with the authors of the 2016 AJOT article titled Effectiveness of a Handwriting Intervention With At-Risk Kindergarteners.
Join me, along with Sheryl Zylstra, DOT, MS, OTR/L & Beth Pfeiffer, PhD, OTR/L, BCP, as we dive deeper into this journal article that shows how a handwriting intervention can impact at-risk kindergarteners.
View the transcript and full show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode82
In this episode of the OT School House Podcast, we are talking to recent graduate, Alexa Corley, about her OTD capstone where she surveyed and interviewed therapists, teachers, and administrators about the idea and use of a workload model.
Listen in to hear her findings and a discussion about the positive effects of using a workload model.
View the full show notes and transcript at otschoolhouse.com/episode81
We are kicking off the 2021-22 school year with the perfect topic - Ergonomics. For the better part of 18 months, many of us have been working from home and students have been learning from their couches, beds, & Kitchen table. If you are lucky, you have had a desk in your home to work from. Now, Most of us are heading back into the school buildings and that is going to be a big change on our bodies. So today I am bringing on School-Based OT and Ergonomic Specialist, Kirsten Beshay, to talk a little bit about how ergonomics has and will continue to impact us, the teachers in our schools and the kids we serve. In this episode we dive into both her experiences as an ergonomic specialist in the private sector as well as her experiences in the schools.
View the full show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode80
Welcome to the show notes for Episode 79 of the OT School House Podcast.
Money makes the world go round.
It's that simple...
Okay, well, maybe it's not that simple. But even if you don't believe that money makes the world go around, as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant who has graduated in the past 10 years, you know that money does pay your student loans. That is one thing for sure.
So on this episode of the OT School House podcast, we have Amirra Condelee, OTR/L, who you may know as @marvelousmiracles.OT on Instagram, to share her experiences as a new grad occupational therapist trying to pay off student loans.
We're going to talk about some different ways to go about paying off your student loans and a little bit about the idea of refinancing your loans. Amirra is also going to share with us where her and her significant other are at in relation ship to their student loan process,
If you have ever felt overwhelmed by your student loans or even just finances in general, you're not going to want to miss this episode.
View a transcript of this episode and links discussed at otschoolhouse.com/episode79
Today we are talking with school-based OT and creator of the popular LegiLiner tool, Polly Benson, OTR/L.
After years of drawing lines on paper for kids and trying to convince teachers to do the same for kids in classrooms, Polly took action in her own hands to create the LegiLiner tool back in 2019.
With more than a dozen varied rolling stamps that instantly create lines for kids to write on, Polly is changing how teachers and therapists adapt writing assignments one classroom at a time.
Check out the full show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode78
Today we are talking with a former school-based OT who is well aware of the struggles OTs come across while working in the schools. In fact, it is that school-based experience in conjunction with other OT experiences that led Joseph DiFrancisco, MS, OT/L, (AKA - Joe Friendly) to create a new line of adapted shoes for people of all ages!
If you have ever had a parent ask about a shoe tying goal, be sure to listen to this episode. You may have a new favorite recommendation for those parents.
After you listen, be sure to check out Friendlyshoes.com to see all the styles Joe and his team have come up with to support those who may benefit from an easy to put on shoe.
Have you ever heard of the Schoodles School Fine Motor Assessment tool? I recently became aware of it and have now added it to my repertoire of evaluations tools that I can use.
In Episode 76 of the OT School House I am welcoming to the podcast the Authors of the Schoodles Assessment to further understand for myself why this tool is so valuable and how we as OTs can use it to support our practice as School-Based OTs.
Please help me to welcome co-authors of the 4th edition of the Schoodles Assessment, Marie Frank, OTR/L & Monica Fortunato, OTR/L
Check out the full show notes at OTschoolhouse.com/episode76
In this episode of the OT School House Podcast, Jayson gets real while breaking down a 2018 article outlining a specific typing program and it's effectiveness versus a free typing program. In this discussion, we will look at various typing methods, the lack of available norms for typing speed, Motor Learning Theory and Keyboarding, and how a premium paid program compares to a free program. Listen in to hear why the research is still not great when it comes to typing.
Article Citation:
- Denise K. Donica, Peter Giroux & Amber Faust (2018) Keyboarding instruction: Comparison of techniques for improved keyboarding skills in elementary students, Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, & Early Intervention, 11:4, 396-410, DOI: 10.1080/19411243.2018.1512067
View the show notes and transcript at otschoolhouse.com/episode75
"What is the difference between ADHD and Sensory Processing disorder?" Has a parent or a teacher ever asked you that question? This has always been a touch question for me to answer. I could always explain sensory processing well, but I hadn't learned much about the neurological processes behind ADHD.
To help you and I better understand the differences between ADHD and SPD, I am welcoming to the podcast, Debbie Lund, MS, OTR/L. Debbie is here to share with us her experiences of working with children who have SPD and/or ADHD and how our treatments may need to vary based on the child's needs.
For the full show notes and transcript of the episode, head over to OTschoolhouse.com/episode74
Today, we are going to talk about 10 things that you can do right now, at the end of this school year, to make NEXT school year a little bit easier. Some of these are going to be pretty straightforward and you may already be doing some of them. But some of these are going to be a little bit more reflective in nature. I'm going to ask you to go a step deeper with me and think about how you can make your next school year better by wrapping up this year in an organized manner. It's just you and I today, so let's jump in to it!
- A-Z School-Based OT Course
- Back To School Conference - Aug. 27-29, 2021
- Edjoin.org
Today, we are focusing on the activities children participate in during education in 3 specific grade levels as we discuss a recent brief report published in the American Journal of OT. The report is titled Fine Motor Activities in Elementary School Children: A Replication Study and was published in January of 2020. Together, we are going to discus what percentage of the day students spend completing various fine and gross motor activities.
View full show notes
In today's episode, we have Dr. Kelly Mahler on to introduce us to Interoception. Very few people have ever heard of interception and even less know what it means. This may even be the first time you hearing the word interoception. Well, whether it is or is not, you're going to want to listen to this episode. Dr. Mahler is a true genius when it comes to interoception and she has so much to share with us today. Press play to learn how you can assess your client and understand whether or not they have difficulties with interoception.
Whether you trained in the USA, Greece, India, or anywhere else in the world to be an OT, this episode with Ushma Sampat is sure to teach you several valuable lessons on understanding cultural differences, systematic biases, and how to be a better school-based OT! Ushma is a now a private practice owner in the Bay Area of California where she see clients in their natural setting, including kids in school. But to get to this point, she had to learn so much. This is not an episode to skip!
View the transcript and full show notes here
In this OT Month special episode, I am teaming up with Sarah Putt from the OT 4 Lyfe Podcast to talk about the importance of supporting our OT associations. We will discus the perks, the costs, and the reasons why we support our local, national, and world OT associations. The OT associations need our support so that they can turn around and effectively support us. At the end of the episode, we announce a giveaway put together to support you and OT associations all around the world. I hope you enjoy this special OT Month Episode!
- Enter for the giveaway here!
- Become an AOTA Member (Affiliate link)
- OT 4 Lyfe Podcast
In this episode we are highlighting travel opportunities as an occupational therapy practitioner with Devon Breithart, OTR/L. But that's not all! We will start this conversation by discussing what you need to know if you are looking into a travel therapy position as an employee for a 3rd party company. But we are also going to discus with Devon how she used a coaching model during the pandemic and what she learned from this.
View all of the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode68
Sometimes we simply forget what average is and need a reminder. In episode 67, we are having a discussion about a recent journal article that looks at the typical handwriting abilities among second graders and compares their scores on the Evaluation Tool of Children's Handwriting - Manuscript to the teacher's subjective observations of the children's work samples.
Links to Show References:
- Long, D. M., & Conklin, J. (2019). Handwriting Performance of Typical Second-Grade Students as Measured by the Evaluation Tool of Children's Handwriting - Manuscript and Teacher Perceptions of Legibility. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 7(4), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.15453/ 2168-6408.1492
- The Evaluation Toll of Children's Handwriting
Have you ever wondered what to do with your high school students? Did you there is such a thing as a Post Secondary Transition Plan that is required for every high school student on an IEP? If not, this is the episode for you! Today, I am welcoming to the podcast, Dr. Liz Abadiotakis, OTD, OTR/L to share with her experiences working with Post Secondary Transition Plans as part of an IEP team.
Key questions to be answered:
- What is a Post Secondary Transition plan?
- When must a transition plan be put in place?
- What are the pieces to a transition plan?
- How are IEP goals similar or different from transition plan Goals?
- Who traditionally writes the transition plan?
- How can OTPs support post secondary transition?
Links to Show References:
- Dr. Liz' Website
- IDEA Transition planning
- A Transition Guide to Postsecondary Education and Employment for Students and Youth with Disabilities
- AOTA Transition planning
- OT School House Workload Calculator
- Dr. Liz Summit Webinar
- Join AOTA.org (Starbucks affiliate)
View the Transcript at otschoolhouse.com/episode66
In episode 65, we are having a discussion about a recent journal article that looks at school-based occupational therapists' role and capabilities in implementing a mental health tier 1 MTSS intervention. Today's article is titled The Comfortable Cafeteria Program for Promoting Student Participation and Enjoyment: An Outcome Study. This journal comes from the American Journal of occupational therapy and it was published in 2018. The research study itself occurred in 2014, and 2015, The Authors are Susan Bazyk. Luis Demirjian, Francis Horvath, and Laurie Doxsey.
Article citation: Susan Bazyk, Louise Demirjian, Frances Horvath, Lauri Doxsey; The Comfortable Cafeteria Program for Promoting Student Participation and Enjoyment: An Outcome Study. Am J Occup Ther2018;72(3):7203205050.
Show Notes
Today, I am welcoming Olivia Martinez-Hauge, MFTA, OTR/L, back to the podcast. Olivia is a school-based OT, a parent of a child with special needs, and a soon-to-be licensed marriage and family therapist as she furthers her education to support children with special needs. In this episode, Olivia and I are going to provide updates as to how this year has gone compared to our expectations back in August. We will then dive into some pressing issues like person-first versus disability first language, ableism, non-preferred activity goals, how OTs address behavior, and how stress plays a role in behavior. You are going to love these discussions
Show Notes: otschoolhouse.com/episode64
In episode 63 of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Jayson interviews a leader in the sensory integration community. Dr. Susanne Smith Roley, OTR/L, OTD, FOTA joins the podcast to talk about how she came to know and love both occupational therapy and sensory integration. We also talk a bit about the history and future of SI. We even address the difficult topic of how and why sensory integration has been criticized over the years within the profession and Dr. Roley provides great insight into the research and fidelity within sensory integration. We finish off this podcast with a discussion on Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). Listen in for a valuable experience!
View the full show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode63
In this episode, I interview Amy Laurent, Ph.D., OTR/L, from the SCERTS Model and Autism Level up. Amy uniquely holds degrees in OT, special education, and developmental psychology and she is a Co-author of the SCERTS model which is being used worldwide as a way to support children with Autism. Listen in to learn about the evidence supporting the SCERTS Model and how Amy continues to support the Autism community. We will also briefly talk about the amazing TED Talk Amy had the opportunity to present titled: Compliance is Not the Goal: Letting Go of Control and Rethinking Support for Autistic Individuals
View the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode62
In episode 61 of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, I have a fantastic conversation with Jill Maglio, OTR/L, on how she incorporates her passion for circus in her everyday therapy practice. We will talk not only about how she uses circus in here day to day therapy with kids, but also how she has made a living helping people around the world with circus.
View all of the extras from this show at otschoolhouse.com/episode61
In this episode, I am looking back at what I learned from 2020 and sharing what you can expect from the OT Schoolhouse in 2021. We will also review 5 new years resolutions fit for any School-Based OT and one special announcement.
- A-Z School-based OT
- Occupationaltherapy.com
View full show notes
In this episode, I'm sharing with you the who, what, when, where, why & how of screenings in the school-based OT setting. Whether you are a brand new occupational therapist or a seasoned School-Based OT, the likelihood that you are using screenings and the subsequent opportunities to their full potential are unlikely simply because it is not something we are trained in. I hope this podcast can inspire you to move forward with supporting more students than just those who are on an IEP.
Get out of the #EvalMeetTreatRepeat trap
View the show resources at otschoolhouse.com/episode59
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, I have a conversation with Amanda Speights, OTR/L about what occupational therapy looks like in a preschool. She works in a model preschool and I work in... well, a preschool, not sure I would call it a model preschool =P
Anyways, in this episode we talk about the what the goal is for working with preschoolers, the referral and assessment process, and why we think it is important to collaborate with the preschool teachers to serve our students. Be sure to check this one out and view the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode58
In this second episode of the 2-part teletherapy series, I discuss the pros and cons of the most popular telehealth platforms being used by public schools districts and some tips on how to use both Google Meet and Zoom. I then go into what a school-based occupational therapy evaluation may look like through a telehealth model. We will look at what assessments tools may or may not be possible. And finally, in the end, we will discuss ethics as they relate to telehealth and how to ensure that you are providing equitable services.
Earn 2 hours of professional development when you listen to this episode and episode 56. Learn how here!
View full show notes
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, I share guidance, research, and practical strategies related to providing telehealth occupational therapy services as a School-Based OT. We will look specifically at AOTA's guidance on telehealth, state laws to be mindful of, and the considerations to be mindful of when providing OT services via a teletherapy model. I also provide a few of my favorite teletherapy treatment ideas and how I have been adapting them. This is the first in a 2-part series on teletherapy
Earn 2 hours of professional development when you listen to this episode and episode 57. Learn how here!
View the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode56
This Episode is sponsored by LearnPlayThrive.com
On this special event episode of the OT School House Podcast, Jayson welcomes to the show occupational therapists, Jaime Spencer, OTR/L, and Billy Hatridge, OTR/L
In this episode, Jayson, Jaime, and Billy discuss what the looming return to the 2020-21 school may look like in our districts and how we are planning for them. We discuss how evaluations, treatments and IEP meetings will all be very different, even from how they were at the end of the 2020 school year. We also spend some time advocating for our profession and a workload model in schools.
Learn more about the A-Z School-Based OT Course at otschoolhouse.com/a2z
View this episode's notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode55
On this special event episode of the OT School House Podcast, Jayson welcomes to the show occupational therapist, Olivia Martinez-Hauge, MFTA, OTR/L, and occupational therapy assistant, Cait Bowen, COTA. You may remember Cait from Episode 44 or the OT School House Podcast.
In this episode, Jayson, Cait, and Olivia discuss what the looming return to the 2020-21 school may look like in our districts and how we are planning for them. We discuss how evaluations, treatments, and IEP meetings will all be very different, even from how they were at the end of the 2020 school year.
View full show notes
On this episode of the OT School House Podcast, Jayson welcomes to the show the wonderful minds behind @TheFannyPackTherapist to talk about their specialty, Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Annabeth Knight, OTD, OTR/L & Mara Jonet, MA, CCC-SLP have presented at conferences nationwide on the collaborative approach to evaluating and implementing AAC devices fro children. In this podcast episode we focus on that collaborative process and the role of the OT. We also talk about why AAC devices are sometimes under utilized and how to prevent users from abandoning their device.
View the entire show notes at otschoolhouse.com/epsidoe53
Have you every felt unappreciated by the teachers at your school? Well, listen to this episode to learn what a small research study has to say about the way teachers and OTs perceive Occupational Therapy and therapists in the schools. Dr. Bolton and Jayson will talk about this and more in Episode 52 of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast!
Help Jayson by Donating to Big Brothers and Big Sisters
Join Jayson and Dr. John Pagano as we talk about the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents displaying complex behaviors. Dr. Pagano shares resources that he has developed over the years that you can access for free at FABStrategies.org.
View the Episode 51 show notes
Get the FAB Strategies Book on Amazon (affiliate link supporting the OT School House)
In this episode, Jayson hosts fellow occupational therapist, Amanda Clark, to talk about the differences between a contract school-based job and a district school-based job. After we identify the differences, we talk about how to land your first, or perhaps your fourth School-based Occupational Therapy job.
View the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode50
In this episode, Jayson interviews Sarah Collins, OTR/L. Sarah is an occupational therapist that specializes in supporting students who are homeschooled and the families that support them. Homeschooling her own kids has helped her to understand where the true needs are for this community and the research she has found supports the occupational coaching model that she uses with her clients. Listen in an earn 1 hour of professional development for doing so!
View the show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode49
In this episode, Jayson shares how he has transitioned to providing teletherapy for the students on his caseload. He talks about the technology involved, the types of teletherapy, simple treatment ideas, and even some ethics of the situation. At the end of the episode, Jayson answers several questions that were asked on Instagram.
OTschoolhouse.com/episode48
Purpose Therapy Box
Find the perfect OT gift for yourself or your favorite OTP! Use promo OTSchoolHouse for 10% off!
In this episode, Jayson hosts Tony Tai Nguyen, a Special Education Attorney based in southern California. Together we discuss why parents seek out attorneys and what attorneys are looking for in a good IEP meeting. We will also discuss why parents do not always agree with IEPs and what he is preparing for as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Show notes at otschoolhouse.com/episode47
In this episode, Jayson hosts "The OT Dad", Billy Hatridge, to talk about what it is like to an education-based occupational therapist in the rural area of southwest Arkansas. Listen in as we share stories to help you not make the same mistakes we have.
Show Notes: otschoolhouse.com/episode46
Sponsor: Purpose Therapy Box - Use promo code otschoolhouse for 10% your t-shirt order
In this episode, Jayson shares advice from eighteen fellow school-based occupational therapists and members of the OT School House Community! We cover each of the following topics:
- Getting to know everyone on campus and allow them to get to know you
- Building rapport
- Asking Questions
- Knowledge translation - Get trained and train others
- Getting organized so that you can be flexible
- Advocating for yourself!
Today's Sponsor: ThePencilGrip.com Get 30% off your entire order!
View full show notes
In this episode, Jayson hosts an OT/OTA team from the state of Michigan to discuss the dynamics of the working relationship and how to maximize communication. Mary Kleinheksel and Cait Bowen talk about the systems they have put in place to maximize communications and facilitate trust among the practitioners. We also talk about aspects of billing, evaluations, treatment planning, and how many COTA's an OT can supervise.
Show Notes: OTSchoolhouse.com/episode44
Today's Sponsor: ThePencilGrip.com
In this episode, I share 7 tips to help you get ready for a tough, maybe high-profile, IEP. With the help of a few personal experiences, I talk about how to ensure that you are prepared logistically and emotionally for what can be an intense 3-6 hours with the IEP team. Did you listen and feel like I forgot something on my list? Let me know with an email!
Show notes: OTSchoolHouse.com/episode43
Get on the A-Z School-Based OT Course Waitlist
One aspect of school-based OT that both therapists and administrators alike seem to be reaching for is the development of an effective and organized RTI program. One that allows therapists to have a meaningful difference in the classroom for the students and teachers.
In episode 42, Jayson shares how RTI has moved from being just for teachers to being for service providers as well. He talks about what an ideal RTI system looks like, how he implements RTI in his schools, and how you can start moving toward an RTI model. Listen in for some excellent tips to get you started!
Be sure to view the show notes at OTSchoolHouse.com/episode42
In episode 41, Jayson talks about the American Occupational Therapy Association's Occupational Profile and how it can be better suited to meet the needs of school-based and pediatric occupational therapists. We will look at why it is important to build an occupational profile and how to best do that in the schools to save you time and energy! Get your free download of the OTSH SBOT Occupational Profile at OTSchoolHouse.com/episode41
In this episode, Jayson hosts the OT Dad, Billy Hatridge, to review an article titled "Hand Strength, Handwriting, and Functional Skills in Children With Autism" by Michele Alaniz, Eleanor Galit, Corina Isabel Necesito & Emily Rosario. This is a 2015 article from the American Journal of Occupational Therapy.
Show notes: otschoolhouse.com/episode40
Article Citation:
Michele L. Alaniz, Eleanor Galit, Corina Isabel Necesito, Emily R. Rosario; Hand Strength, Handwriting, and Functional Skills in Children With Autism. Am J Occup Ther 2015;69(4):6904220030p1-6904220030p9. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2015.016022. (Link to AJOT)
In this episode, Jayson reviews a 2015 article about what School-based Occupational Therapy looks like in the united states. It is the first in a series of journal articles Jayson will be reviewing. Below is the citation for the article discussed in this episode. Check out the show notes for some of the important points Jayson covers related to this article.
Bissell, Julie & Cermak, Sharon. (2015). Frameworks, Models and Trends in School-Based Occupational Therapy in the United States. The Israeli Journal of Occupational Therapy. 24. E49-E69.
Show Notes
In this episode, Jayson lets Danielle Delorenzo, OTR/L take the mic along with the colleague My Bui OTR/L, and soon to be OTR/Ls Michelle Vuong, Mary Nguyen, & Rivka Negin Rahmani (Students in the Stanbridge University Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy Program at the time of the recording).
This fantastic group of OTs and OT students shares how they developed an evidence-based referral process and occupational therapy manual. This group has spent over a year together working on this manual for a school district in Southern California and recently presented their manual in a presentation at the Western Regional Occupational Therapy Symposium in San Diego. With any luck, they may also be presenting at #AOTA2019 in Boston, Ma.
This podcast qualifies as a Professional Development Podcast and you can earn 1 online contact hour when you listen and take the online quiz.
Interested in learning more about the special guests in this episode, simply head on over to otschoolhouse.com/episode38
In this episode, Jayson interviews fellow occupational therapist, Erika Del Pozo, MOT, OTR/L on burnout in healthcare-related professions (yes, that includes school-based OTs too). We discuss everything from what is burn out, to how to prevent and overcome burnout. Join in and listen to this episode if you have ever felt like work has gotten the better of you. You won't regret it! Plus, be sure to earn your 1 contact hour of professional development and check out the resources in the Show notes.
Objectives for this Professional Development Podcast. Listeners will:
- Become familiar with what burnout is and is not; including the statistics behind healthcare burnout
- Identify how burnout is different from depression but why some may confuse the two
- Identify strategies to prevent and overcome burnout in any workplace environment
In this episode, Jayson has a discussion with Dr. Sue Bazyk, OTR/L, FAOTA, about the changes in school-based OT over the past 40 years and how therapists can move forward to support ALL students.
Listen in to hear about:
- How OT came to be ingrained in school-based Practice
- How treatment models have changed over 40+ years in school-based OT
- What LRE stands for and why inclusive and embedded/integrated services are vital to school-based OT
- What the "Every Moment Counts" program is and where to learn more about it. (See below for links to several freebie Handouts)
View full show notes including supporting documents at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode36
In this episode, Jayson interviews fellow school-based occupational therapist, Colleen Cameron Whiting. Colleen has had two articles published (see show notes) on providing trauma-informed care (TIC) in the school and today she brings to the podcast a model about how school-based OTs can work with other educators to creating an environment in which students feel safe and welcomed. We also dive into what exactly trauma is, how some trauma can have adverse effects on the developing brain, and what occupational therapy using a TIC model looks like.
Now that you have listened to the episode, purchase the professional development opportunity and take the quiz!
View the show notes for this podcast here!
In this episode, Jayson interviews Ralph Schrader, OTR/L, a part owner of a therapy clinic in New York and creator of the toy brand, Hungry Cutters. Ralph set out to create toys designed to facilitate developing fine motor skills in the kids he treats. Now, he is sharing those toys with us, along with a few tips for anyone out there who may be interested in developing their own toys.
View the entire show notes at https://www.otschoolhouse.com/episode34
Check out the Hungry Cutter toys and support the Podcast at the OT School House Amazon Store
In this episode, Jayson shares what it was like transitioning from one district to another and the lessons that were learned as a result of doing so. Join in to hear about:
- Some pros and cons of both contract and district jobs
- Distinct differences between working in districts big and small
- The importance of advocating for yourself
- The role of occupational therapy in assistive technology
- Why Jayson feels there is a constant change in school employees
- What to consider before taking on a new job
Don't forget to share what you learned as you completed this past school year with me at Jayson@OTSchoolHouse.com or on social media @otschoolhouse
I hope you enjoy this episode! Be sure to check out the resources below. Some of these are affiliate links which allow me to earn a small commission at no additional cost to you!
- Edjoin.org
- A place to find School-based OT Jobs in California and some other regions
- iPhone & iPad Apps (Some of these apps can also be found using the Goole App Store)
- SnapType (free)
- SnapType Pro (necessary for full access)
- Speechify
- Homework App
- Breathe
- Breathe for Kids
- SnapType (free)
View the full show notes for this episode at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode33
View more episode at OTSchoolHouse.com/podcast
Have you been hearing the term "Primitive Reflexes" pop up in IEPs or in the OT room? What about Reflex Integration? To be honest, I remember learning a little about some of the common infant reflexes were in college, but it was only a quick overview. We definitely did not cover what we could do when a child presented with retained primitive reflexes.
In this episode of the OT School House Podcast, Jayson interviews Sonia Story. Sonia is the creator of the Brain And Sensory Foundations Course at MovePlayThrive.com
Sonia is absolutely passionate about the use of rhythmic movements to help students who may be not fully accessing their activities of daily living. She originally got started in this field while trying to help her own children several years ago and has not stopped learning how to better serve the families she now works with.
Listen in to this episode if you are interested in getting a taste of what reflex integration is and what it could potentially look like in a school setting!
Show Notes Here
MovePlayThrive.com Special Page for OTSH Listeners including show slides and a special handout!
In this episode of the OT School House Podcast, Jayson interviews the author of the Handwriting Brain Body Disconnect, Cheri Dotterer, MS, OTR/L. Listen in as Cheri defines Dysgraphia and explains what the six types of Dysgraphia are. She also shares how OTs can help students to overcome some of the problems they face by using the Motor Learning Theory and The Sensory Integration Theory.
Amazon Affiliate Link: Handwriting Brain Body Disconnect by Cheri Dotterer
Complete Show Notes: OTSchoolHouse.com/episode31
In this professional development podcast, Jayson interviews Dr. Stephanie Foster, PhD, OTR/L and her daughter, Nicole Foster on the effects of technology use and the promotion of a healthy balance. We will look at current trends in technology use among teens as well as how these trends may affect young adults down the road as Internet Addiction Disorder is set to be added to the newest version of the DSM. Nicole also presents a model for developing a healthy balance between technology and other life experiences.
Get the powerpoint slides and earn 1.5 contact hours of Professional Development units for listening to this episode Here!
Show Notes: OTSchoolhouse.com/episode30
Do you work with students who use iPads or other technology tools to access their educational curriculum and environment? RJ from RJCooper.com is a computer science guru that specializes in developing tools for people with special needs and the people who serve them. For nearly 40 years, RJ has worked primarily with people who have developmental disabilities to help them benefit from highly specialized switches, computers and applications, and mechanisms that position these tools.
Listen in to learn more about how RJ develops tools and hear what tools he recommends for every classroom with a population that may require specialized equipment.
View the full show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode29
This episode is sponsored by DoubleTimeDocs.com (Affiliate link)
Listen in as Jayson and Danielle Delorenzo, OTR/L, provide an introduction to IEEs and how to prevent IEEs, defend against IEEs, and even conduct IEEs as an independent evaluator.
You can earn 1 unit of professional development by listening to this podcast and purchasing the episode 28 podcast PD opportunity at otschoolhouse.com/episode28
Podcast Learning Objectives
Listeners will:
-
Learn the primary reasons that lead to parents asking for an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) and what they can do to in an attempt to prevent IEEs
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Understand what an IEE looks like in a real situation and learn how to approach an IEP meeting when an IEE is being presented
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Learn the basics of providing and conducting an IEE as an outside evaluator.
View the full show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode28
This episode of the OTSH Podcast is sponsored by DoubleTimeDocs.com
Have you ever thought about seeing clients on the weekends or maybe during summer? Do you have a dream to be your own boss? If so, this episode is for you. In episode 27, Jayson interviews Scott Harmon, OTR/L, on how to start a therapy practice from the ground up. We talk about why many therapists turn to starting their own practice, as well as some of the practical steps you can start with if you want to do the same thing.
Scott owns two of his own private OT, Speech, and PT clinics for many years now and he now shares his wisdom via the Start A Therapy Practice Podcast, the StartATherapyPractice.com website, and The Academy of Private Practice.
View the Full Show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode27
- Start a Therapy Practice Website (Special affiliate page just for the OT School House Community)
- Use Promo Code "otschoolhouse" to get $100 off your access to the Academy of Private Practice!
In this episode, Jayson interviews Dr. Kelly Auld-Wright, OTD, OTR/L, on how to go from sensory evaluation to treating a child using sensory integration and sensory strategies in a school setting (You know, without the whole gym setup). Kelly starts off right where Dr. Zoe Mailloux left off in Episode 25 and explains what type of patterns we should be looking for and what to do when we see those patterns.
Listen in to learn more about Kelly and how she uses sensory integration treatment and sensory strategies to benefit the students she works with.
View full show notes
In this episode, Jayson interviews Dr. Zoe Mailloux, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA on the importance of completing a comprehensive evaluation in sensory integration. Since being a research assistant for Dr. A. Jean Ayres, Dr. Mailloux has gone on to author more than 30 published journal articles and has taught courses on Ayres Sensory Integration® all around the world. She is also a professor in the doctoral program at Jefferson University in Philadelphia and has worked with many organizations on understanding the importance of sensory integration in all individuals.
Links to show notes including mentioned resources and books/articles authored/featuring Dr. Mailloux: OTSchoolHouse.com/episode25
In this episode, Jayson interviews Cara Koscinski, MOT, OTR/L and the wonderful lady behind the PocketOT.com website. Along with sharing endless amounts of therapy activities on her blog, Cara has authored 6 books and provides several online webinars for pediatric therapists. Today, she holds nothing back as we dive into how she became the pocket OT, interoception, and what is to come in the pediatric OT world. ***Be sure to listen to the full episode for a special discount code!
Show Resources: Some links may be affiliate links that help to support the OT School House at no additional cost to you!
Books:
- The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowits (Amazon)
- The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun by Carol Kranowits (Amazon)
- 52 weeks of OT
- "Interoception: How I Feel" Book on Amazon
- Other Books by Cara
Webinars (Use this link to view all of the below webinars)
- Is It Sensory or Is It Behavior?
- Pediatric OT Primer
- Executive Function Disorder
- Learning Disabilities and ADHD
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Building Healthy Brains
- Business of OT 101
Other Mentioned Resources
- "School-
See episode Show Notes here: otschoolhouse.com/episode24
In this episode, Jayson interviews occupational therapist and creator of the Zones of Regulation self-regulation program, Leah Kuypers. Leah has spent nearly all of her career working with children as both a private practice pediatric OT as well as a school-based therapist. But, it was during her Master's in Education program that she had an idea to develop a program simple enough for any school-aged child to understand. Based on 4 primary colors, the Zones of Regulation helps students to identify and express their feelings and how to react to these feelings.
View the entire show notes, including links to mentioned resources at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode23
To earn a professional development certificate of completion for this episode, click here!
With technology advancing every day and becoming cheaper to access in all forms, it is no longer a matter of if virtual OT services will become prominent. Rather, virtual OT services are already here and are only going to become more prevalent in school-based settings, as well as in other traditional medical roles. In this training, you will understand the necessary tools required and guidelines to follow in order to provide telehealth OT services in school-based setting.
Objectives for this Professional Development Podcast. Listeners will:
- Understand the guidelines placed on service providers looking to provide telehealth OT services.
- Know what tools, software, and hardware are needed to provide virtual services.
- Understand the difficulties and limitations associated with provided virtual OT Services.
Visit OTschoolhouse.com/episode22 for the complete show notes
In episode 21 of the OT School House Podcast, guest Meg Proctor of LearnPlayThrive.com joins Jayson to share five essential strategies for occupational therapists who work with students who have Autism.
Meg is an experienced pediatric occupational therapist who specializes in the provision of services with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She currently sees clients privately and provides both live and self-paced online trainings through Learn Play Thrive, LLC.
To learn more about Meg and Learn Play Thrive, visit LearnPlayThrive.com and click on "For Therapist" at the top to grab a free ebook on how to help kids with Autism who do not have many occupations.
Full Show Notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode21
In episode 20 of the OT School House Podcast, Abby and guest, Sarah Putt, MA, OTR/L of the OT 4 LYfe Podcast, talk about the differences between school-based OT and Early Intervention OT. They also touch on what the transition from Early Intervention to school-based services may look like.
View the entire show notes at OTschoolhouse.com/episode20
Or, learn how you can earn professional development by listening to select episodes of the OT School House Podcast.
In episode 19 of the OT School House Podcast, we are excited to host Jaime Spencer, OTR/L, of MissJaimeOT.com to talk about how we can advocate for ourselves as OTs at every level from the school site to nationally.
Have you heard about California's Credentialing efforts? How about New York? Join us for a conversation on why OTs should be valued like teachers and how to help with the process!
View the complete Show Notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode19
Today we talk to Lauren Drobnjak, physical therapist and co-creator of The Inspired Treehouse Blog. Lauren and Claire, (the OT behind The Inspired Treehouse) recently co-authored a book titled the Playful Learning Lab for Kids. This new book features 52 gradable activities for kids of all abilities. You can get it on Amazon now!
Be sure to listen to the episode to hear how to get 20% off at theinspiredtreehouse.com
To see a full list of links and sources discussed in this episode, see the episode show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode18
*This description includes affiliate links that allow the OT School House to earn a commission at no additional charge to you. We thank you for your support by using these links.
The Occupational Therapy Practice Framework notes that "Clients may require access to and the ability to use technology such as cell or smartphones, computers or tablets, and videogame consoles to carry out their daily routines and occupations." (2004).
With this in mind, it is not only important to understand how meaningful it is for our clients and students to access technology and online media, but we also need to understand how we use online media to our personal and professional advantage.
In this episode, Jayson and Abby present their findings on how School-based OTs can utilize online media to improve themselves as an OT practitioner.
Join us as Abby has a conversation with fellow pediatric blogger, The Anonymous OT (whose name will be revealed) from TheAnonymousOT.com. An experienced pediatric OT, The Anonymous OT has practiced in school-based settings as well as in a clinic and in home health settings. Together, Abby and our guest discuss the similarities and differences between school-based and clinic occupational therapy evaluations and services. A new place to review and search for continuing education courses is also reviewed.
Visit the show notes for links to all the content discussed!
In this episode, Abby interviews Robert Constantine of OTRobert.wordpress.com about how to assess and address concerns related to visual perception and visual-motor capabilities in our children. In this podcast, you will learn to identify some of the behaviors associated with vision problems and several helpful hints about how to tease out the reason for those behaviors. Robert provides simple steps that you can use tomorrow when you see your students. It is our pleasure to have such a great and knowledgeable guest. We have no doubt that you will thoroughly enjoy and benefit from hearing what Robert has to share.
See the complete show notes at OTSchoolHouse.com/episode15
In this episode, Jayson interviews Jason Gonzales of DoubleTimeDocs.com (Affiliate link for your convenience) about some of the Laws, regulations and state guidelines that help OTs understand what should be in (or omitted from) our reports. Also discussed is when you should use standardized assessments, how to choose what assessment to use, and how to decrease the amount of time it takes to complete an OT evaluation report.
Get your free 7-day trial to DTD and use promo code FALL18 for 20% off your order for a limited time. (Now Available for PTs as well)
References:
Want to see the unedited webinar including all of the weird hand gestures we make? Watch the full webinar complete with live feedback and Q&A, HERE!
The NY Times Article:
Sharp Rise in Occupational Therapy Cases at New York’s Schools by Elizabeth A Harris who covers Education at The New York Times. This 2015 article documents the dramatic increase of students receiving occupational services in New York and Chicago.
Find your State Guidelines:
We have compiled all of the OT and OT/PT State Guidelines on one easy clickable map for you! Check it out here to find your state's guidelines.
Do you run a handwriting group? Do you use a specific program? In this episode, Jayson is diving into the recent literature on handwriting to help you with your decision making when it comes to supporting your students' handwriting goals.
We'll discuss everything from which programs work in what setting, to who can benefit from handwriting instruction and more. Specifically, we will be looking at 4 articles that support the instruction of handwriting in the classroom through a collaborative approach. Be sure to check out the articles in addition to listening to the article; they are cited in the show notes!
In this episode, Jayson interviews fellow occupational therapist, Akemi McNeil (formerly Davies). Akemi is currently the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator at Stanbridge University's Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy program where she works with hospitals, clinics, schools and other employers in order to place upwards of 120 students in an appropriate fieldwork setting.
In this podcast, Jayson and Akemi talk over what it means to be a fieldwork educator and what every school-based OT should know before taking on a student.
Have a listen if you are interested in the following objectives:
- Listeners will understand the requirements for being a level 1 and/or level 2 fieldwork educator.
- Listeners will understand what is expected of both fieldwork educators and fieldwork students.
- Listeners will understand how they can provide learning experiences to fieldwork students in a school-based setting
Earn Profesional Development Units for listening to this podcast here!
See the episode show notes here.
In this episode, Jayson Interviews Dr. Amy Sadek about how every school-based occupational therapist should be using evidence-based practices and how to find the research that guides what they are doing. Dr. Sadek's background in nutrition and occupational therapy led her to earn a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences. Dr. Sadek's research focused on linking nutrition with behavioral changes in children with Autism. While completing her research she quickly learned how difficult it can be to be an evidence-based practitioner, as well as, how difficult it can be to conduct research in public schools. Listen in as Dr. Amy Sadek shares just how any school-based OT can take part in evidence-based practices and research opportunities.
Earn Professional Development for listening to this episode here!
Have a listen if you would like to freshen up on today's learning objectives, which are:
- Understand the barriers to practicing EBP and conducting further research within Public schools.
- Understand the steps to implement evidence-based practices (EBP) in a school setting.
- Understand the levels of research and the steps to appraising a research article
Links to Show References:
Have a question for Dr. Sadek? You can contact her at ASadek22@gmail.com
"Antioxidants and Autism: Teachers' Perceptions of Behavioral Changes"- This is a link to Dr. Sadek's study in the Advances in Mind-Body Medicines Journal.
The American Journal of Occupational Therapy (AJOT) - Often referenced to in the show as the AJOT, this is one most attributed journals as it relates to occupational therapy.
Guidelines for Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy In California Public Schools - Referred to in the show as the OTPT Guidelines, this document published by the California Department of Education is a useful resource to all School-based OTs, not just those in California. To access it, visit OTSchoolHouse.com/guidelines and click on the state of California.
ProQuest - ProQuest is a research search engine that is accessible to all National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certificants. Just one more reason why each and every OT and OTA should maintain their NBCOT certification.
Google Scholar - This is another one of the many free Google tools that are so helpful. Dr. Sadek uses Google Scholar as a starting point to look up research. While you may not be able to access every article you come across, it provides a great starting point.
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In this episode, Jayson chats with Hopemarie Hower, OTR/L, the winner of the OT School House School's Out Giveaway conducted in June of 2018. Together, Jayson and Hopemarie discuss the similarities and differences between practicing OT in California and Florida. Hopemarie also shares how she collaborates with her school team to conduct assistive technology assessments and how she garners buy-in from her teachers when implementing sensory strategies.
Don't want to miss out on future giveaways, be sure to subscribe to our email list!
Links to Show References:
Contact Hopemarie Hower, OTR/L at Hopemariehower@yahoo.com
Products mentioned on the show (Amazon/iTunes Affiliate Links that support the OT School House):
Jelly Bean Buttons - Briefly mentioned in the episode, Jelly Bean buttons are used to help non-verbal kids communicate. You can record something like "Hello!" using your voice, then every time the student activates the button you will hear "Hello!" Simple as that.
Proloquo2Go - Also briefly mentioned during the episode, this is an iPad app that allows non-verbal students a more advanced system for communication. Think of the old bulky communication devices, but on a sleek iPad or iPad mini. It's a great app, but it's not cheap.
Velcro Dots - while designed to use together to make something like a poster easily stick to a wall. Us school-based OTs can use them in many ways. One way both Hopemari and I use them is as a sensory tool that kids can rub their fingers on. Just stick them to the underside of the desk and no one will never even know the student is regulating themselves by rubbing his or her fingers on some velcro.
Theraband - Often used to develop strengthening in sub-acute rehab settings, Theraband also can help kids stay in their seats while getting the movement they need. Take a 2-foot stand of this stuff, tie the ends together and wrap it around the child's chair legs. Now the child can keep their feet busy while attending to classroom activities.
Exer-saucer (aka ExerExer-bug, aka Flying Turtle) Scooter:
It's funny how so many of the tools we use have so many different names. Hopemarie introduced me to this little tricycle which is powered by trunk movements. I can only imagine how many obstacles courses I could have used this in over the years!
Edjoin.org - A place for OTs and other educators to find available jobs.
Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference - Held annually in Orlan
In this episode, guest Leah Hiller, OTR/L, and Jayson dive into Response to Intervention (RTI) a bit and discuss several ways occupational therapists can have an impact on students without ever completing an evaluation. RTI is a growing model in schools and as OTs, it opens the door for us helping more students in less time. It also provides opportunities for OTs to provide in-services for teachers and recommend curriculums that will benefit the social and motor aspects of student roles.
Earn Professional development for OT School House Podcast episodes you've already listened to at www.OTSchoolHouse.com/pd
Contact Leah Hiller, OTR/L at Hillertherapy.com
Learning Without Tears (LWTears.com):
Formally known as Handwriting Without Tears, LWT is a leader in developing handwriting and keyboarding curriculums. Want to hear from them on the podcast? Shoot them an email and let them know about us.
We Thinkers! from SocialThinking.com:
This program uses music and play to teach early learners how to manage every day social situations.
Personal Space Camp by Julia Cook (Affiliate link)
Use this Amazon affiliate link to check out the book used by Leah to help her young students understand personal space in school.
AOTA's FAQ On Response To Intervention (RTI)
Use this link to view AOTA's description and understanding of what RTI is and how OT/COTA can use RTI in schools.
Thank you for listening.
Be sure to hit subscribe on your app so that you never miss an episode!
In this episode, Jayson and Abby look at the many ways to earn professional development per NBCOT guidelines and share 9 specific places where you can earn your needed Professional Development Units (PDUs) or Competency Assessment Units (CAUs) as NBCOT calls them.
There is also a special announcement at the end of this episode, so stay tuned.
Have a listen to have these three questions answered:
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Who needs continuing education and how many units do you need?
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What counts as professional development?
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Where can I earn professional development units?
Affiliate links that help the OT School House continue podcasting:
Medbridge: Use Promo code otschoolhouse for 40% off your subscription. An online hub for web-based continuing education videos.
Occupationaltherapy.com - Another online hub for web-based continuing education videos
PocketOT.com - A personal blog by Cara Kocinski. She offers a few online webinar courses.
In this episode, Jayson interviews occupational therapist and Doctor of Health Sciences, Dr. Rachelle Murphy. Dr. Murphy is currently an instructor at the American Career College in Anaheim, California and she is currently in the process of researching the effects of using a mindfulness program in small charter school.
During this episode, Dr. Murphy reviews recent research related to the mental health status of school-aged children and shares how she is using mindfulness and meditation to help both students and their teachers.
Check out the School's out giveaway page at OTSchoolHouse.com/summer
Snow notes: OTSchoolHouse.com/episode7
In this episode, we look at two commonly used school-based Occupational therapy assessment tools. Both the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, or BOT-2, and the Miller Function & Participation Scales (M-FUN) are standardized testing tools that occupational therapist use to assess fine motor and visual motor skills in children. While they are similar in what they assess, they are very different in how they get their results.
Today's Objectives:
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What skills do both the BOT-2 and MFUN assess in a child’s educational capabilities?
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What are the pros and cons of each assessment tool?
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How do you decide which assessment tool is best suited for any given school-based OT assessment?
In this episode, host Abby Parana has a discussion with Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA), Steven Troyer. Steven and Abby have previously worked together and collaborated to help many of the same students meet their IEP goals. Listen in to hear Abby and Steven discuss behavior from both OT and BCBA perspectives.
In this episode, we talk to Kerry Mellin who is a motion picture and television costume designer by day, and a creator of the EazyHold by night. The EazyHold is a universal cuff she and her sisters designed that is allowing children to access occupations they never thought were possible. Hear how this idea of a modern universal cuff came to be and why we prefer it over any other cuff we have seen available.
In this episode, Abby returns to discuss SMART-E goals and how these goals should drive a service providers decision on how frequently to see a student.
In this session, Jayson interviews Tricia Gomez who shares her program that is gaining a lot of attention from OTs and special education teachers across the nation. Learn how dancing can be used to teach ADLs and improve other skills.
In this very first episode of the OTSH Podcast, Jayson and Abby introduce themselves and jump right into the steps required to develop an assessment that you can defend in an IEP and beyond.
Purpose Therapy Box
Find the perfect OT gift for yourself or your favorite OTP! Use promo OTSchoolHouse for 10% off!