What is the main focus of occupational therapy (OT) in schools?

The primary focus of occupational therapy (OT) in schools is to develop the skills necessary for daily living and academic tasks. Occupational therapists work with students to enhance their ability to participate fully in educational and self-care activities. This may include fine motor skills necessary for writing, self-regulation skills for classroom behavior, or strategies for organization and task completion. The goal is to help students become more independent in both their academic endeavors and their everyday lives.

While other options touch on important areas, such as physical exercise or communication skills, they do not encapsulate the comprehensive role of OT in addressing the broad spectrum of skills and tasks essential for a child's success both in the classroom and at home. Emotional and behavioral issues, although relevant, are typically addressed through other support services and are not the central focus of occupational therapy. The emphasis is on enabling students to perform activities that are meaningful to them, which is central to their overall development in the school environment.