Occupational and Physical Therapy

What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is a related service which is designed to help students within a school setting who are showing an educational related difficulty which impairs his/her ability to function in the school environment. Occupational Therapists use purposeful activity to facilitate a student’s active participation in the areas of self-care, academic and /or vocational pursuits, as well as play and leisure activities. Using direct and indirect services, as well as assistive technology and environmental modifications, school occupational therapists collaborate with parents, teachers, and other educational staff to help implement a child’s program. The goal of services is to assist a student to function well within the school setting.

Does an occupational therapist teach handwriting?
An occupational therapist works to improve the fine and visual motor skills of a child who has a disability which impacts their ability to complete written work. If a student has fine and visual motor skills in the average range, meaning no identified disability, the classroom teacher will work on printing/handwriting as a standard part of the educational process Occupational therapy, as a related service, is not required to teach students handwriting or correct poor writing habits.

Who provides Occupational Therapy services in Deptford Township?
Mrs. April Waligorski

What is Physical Therapy?
Physical Therapy is a related service, which is designed to help students access their school environment and participate safely and to the best of their ability in their academic curriculum. School physical therapists address functional limitations such as difficulties with mobility, transitions or gross motor skills, as well as interventions that address impairments that contribute to those functional limitations such as posture, balance, strength, and coordination. Difficulties in these areas must impact upon student participation in their educational program and environment.

Who provides Physical Therapy services in Deptford Township?
The district currently contracts with Gloucester County Special Services to provide this service.