School-based sessions are when an occupational therapist provides services during your child’s school day. You can expect the therapist to arrive fully prepared for each session with a session plan and materials to target their therapy goals. We have serviced many of Chicago’s private schools, public schools and daycare settings that do not offer occupational therapy services onsite. 

Benefits of in-school sessions include

• Collaboration - having your child’s occupational therapist provide services in school allows us to regularly collaborate with your child’s teachers. This is especially helpful when your child’s school or daycare does not already offer occupational therapy services. 

• Implementing strategies - in-school sessions allows your child’s occupational therapist to learn about their school routines and provide teachers with resources to improve your child’s participation in the academic setting. 

• Push in/pull out - occupational therapists will determine whether a push in or pull out (or hybrid) model will be most advantageous to your child’s learning style to optimize engagement and participation with age-appropriate tasks. This recommendation would be provided by the therapist.

• Convenience - having an occupational therapist provide in-school services makes it easy for families as it cuts out the commute. In-school therapy can also help support consistency of sessions which in turn will help your child improve their skills and reach their goals. 

While school-based occupational therapy is beneficial for both kiddos and their families, receiving services in-home can also be helpful for improving your child’s skills. Be sure to reach out to your therapist regarding which setting may be the most helpful for your child as each child’s needs are different.