Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Occupational Therapy - Skills For The Job of Living

Occupational therapy is skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. Occupational therapy assists people in developing the "skills for the job of living" necessary for independent and satisfying lives.
In recognition of all the ways occupational therapy contributes to society's well-being, April has been designated as Occupational Therapy Month
.

Nearly one third of all occupational therapists work in schools, promoting learning by all students.

Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants use their unique experience to help children with disabilities be prepared for and perform important learning and school related activities and to fulfill their role as a student.

School-based occupational therapy assessment and intervention focuses on certain areas:

  • Activities of daily living (caring for self-needs such as eating, dressing, and toilet habits)
  • Education (achieving in the learning environment)
  • Play (interacting with age-appropriate toys, games, equipment and activities)
  • Social participation (developing appropriate relationships and engaging in behavior that doesn't interfere with learning or social relationships)
  • Work (developing interests and skills necessary for transition to community life after graduation)

To find out more about occupational therapy and how it might help you, visit the American Occupational Therapy Association's Web site, www.aota.org.


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