What do occupational therapists focus on in the school system?

Occupational therapists in the school system primarily focus on supporting students' fine motor skills and independence in daily activities. This involves helping students develop the necessary skills to effectively engage in classroom tasks, such as writing, using scissors, and participating in other activities that require fine motor coordination. They assess students' needs and implement strategies to enhance their ability to perform everyday tasks, which are crucial for their academic success and overall independence.

The role of occupational therapists does not typically include improving academic performance in specific subjects, such as math, which is more aligned with the responsibilities of teachers and academic support personnel. Additionally, planning school-wide physical education programs is generally outside the scope of occupational therapy, as that responsibility usually falls to physical education teachers. While mental health counseling is crucial in schools and often provided by school counselors or psychologists, it is not a primary focus for occupational therapists, who concentrate more on physical and functional skills.