The OT Schoolhouse Podcast for School-Based OT Practitioners

Latest Episodes:

Supporting Students with Visual Impairments Jan 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Kelsey Kornaus delves into the world of visual impairments in students.
From the importance of self-advocacy to the impact of sensory difficulties and the role of assistive technology, this episode discusses the challenges and innovative strategies for supporting students with visual impairments in educational settings.
Listen now to gain valuable insights into assessment techniques, the decision-making process for residential placement, and the benefit of community support.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will understand the role occupational therapy practitioners play in supporting students with visual impairments.
Learners will identify challenges and considerations in working with students with visual impairments in educational settings, including the need for specific adaptations, support for sensory difficulties, and the integration of assistive technology and universal design for learning to facilitate academic success and independence.
Learners will identify the importance of advocating for students with visual impairments in accessing necessary support and services.

Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together.
Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com
See you in the next episode!

Innovative Strategies for Improving Handwriting Jan 16, 2024

Show notes

How can the strategic use of color and contrast in writing programs not only capture children's attention but also foster a focused environment for handwriting tasks?
In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, guest Helene Lieberman discusses her journey of developing a program, seeking feedback from colleagues, and making adjustments based on their input. The program features high-contrast laminated pages to reduce distractions, helping children with low vision and attention deficit disorder focus on writing tasks.
Join us as we explore the intersection of program development, collaborative feedback, and the pursuit of effective interventions!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will understand the process and challenges involved in developing a program for school-based occupational therapy.
Learners will identify the potential impact of creating evidence-based programs and interventions in school-based occupational therapy, including the benefits of pairing with academics to conduct formal research projects to evaluate the efficacy of interventions.
Learners will identify the challenges and strategies for managing and collecting program data for multiple students in a school-based setting, and learn about the importance of keeping careful records and monitoring progress during therapy sessions.

OT Solutions for ADHD Challenges Dec 26, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, special guest Lori Flynn is diving into multiple different aspects of understanding ADHD, creating personalized teaching plans, developing visual schedules, and fostering a supportive environment for every child.
We also discuss the challenges and the practical strategies that can assist. You'll be equipped with some tools to create a positive and inclusive learning environment. Join us as we explore these valuable insights and work towards making a real difference in the lives of these students!
Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will understand the environmental Impact on ADHD Symptoms
Learners will identify the pivotal role of individualized interventions in addressing the unique needs of students with ADHD.
Learners will identify the overlap between sensory processing difficulties and ADHD, and distinguish between sensory interventions and breaks for children with ADHD.
Learners will identify the need for collaborative support and individualized teaching plans for children with ADHD, and understand the importance of integrating visual aids, recognizing strengths, and providing clear accommodations for optimal support.

View the full show notes at OTSchoolhouse.com/episode140

Fostering Autonomy through Child-Led Therapy Dec 11, 2023

Show notes

Ever wondered about the transformative power of child-led methods in creating inclusive and empowered learning environments for students with special needs?
Dr. Amy Coopersmith is here to share with us how students receiving special education experience occupation deprivation and the important role of child-led decision-making and planning in occupational therapy. Through her own personal examples and strategies, she shows how these approaches can help foster independence and self-advocacy, ultimately unleashing these students' potential.
Tune in to hear more about many strategies, such as the use of choice boards, self-monitoring, and the "Captain Me" program.

Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will understand the significance of establishing a least restrictive environment for children with disabilities to enhance their autonomy and learning opportunities.
Learners will identify the importance of educators and occupational therapists actively listening to children, aiding them in formulating personal goals, and distinguishing between internally driven and externally imposed objectives to foster independence and empowerment.
Learners will explore practical strategies for engaging children in decision-making, planning, and goal-setting within occupational therapy sessions, aiming to cultivate self-determination and independence.

Exploring Alternatives To Pull-out Services in School-based OT Nov 27, 2023

Show notes

As a school-based Practitioner, have you ever thought about exploring alternatives to traditional pull-out sessions?

If you're looking to expand your scope of practice, increase work efficiency, and provide more individualized services in the least restrictive environment, tune into this episode.

Jayson dives into the benefits of working with students in their natural context, the different service models available, and how to implement them effectively. He discusses many areas from individual and group sessions, to collaboration and consultation with teachers and aides. Listen to learn more!

Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will identify ways to support students in the general education and least restrictive environment
Learners will identify ways to build rapport with teachers
Learners will understand the importance of natural context
Learners will understand how to transition to different service models

Trauma-Informed OT with Adolescents Nov 13, 2023

Show notes

Are you aware of the hidden traumas that adolescents face daily that can sometimes go unnoticed?

In this episode Dr. Park sheds light on the subtle negative experiences that may go unnoticed but have a long-term impact on these young lives. The discussion also takes us beyond traditional understandings of trauma to recognize the broader spectrum that encompasses a sense of not belonging and exclusion due to identity-based microaggressions.

Join us as we uncover the impact of trauma on adolescents, discuss the importance of inclusive education, and foster a greater understanding of how OTPs can support those dealing with trauma in meaningful ways.
Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will gain an understanding of the different types of trauma experienced by adolescents and how these experiences impact their daily lives.
Learners will explore practical strategies to create trauma-informed classrooms and inclusive environments that promote healing, growth, and resilience.
Learners will develop a toolkit of evidence-based interventions and approaches that can be used to address the effects of trauma in school-based settings.

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Why the IEP is NOT Your Treatment Plan Oct 30, 2023

Show notes

Do you ever walk away from an IEP meeting with a plan in mind, only to forget it later?

In this episode, Jayson Davies, MA, OTR/L, discusses why the IEP is not your treatment plan and the crucial differences between the two.

With actionable tips, and insights from the OTPF-4, Jayson explains why creating a treatment plan is essential and how it provides support, protection, and clear direction for OTPs.

Tune in now to learn more!

Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will identify how the treatment plan is different than the IEP document
Learners will understand what specific information is on a treatment plan
Learners will identify ways to protect themselves legally

Empowering Teachers with Integrated OT Services Oct 16, 2023

Show notes

Would you like to have a better understanding of integrated OT services in schools?

In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Dr. Woolley shares many insights on integrated OT services, the importance of understanding individual student needs, collaborating with teachers, and adapting interventions.

She shares valuable insights and strategies for creating an inclusive learning environment. From understanding different service delivery models to integrating multimodal teaching approaches. Tune in now to learn more!

Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will Identify how collaboration and effective communication between the OTPs and teachers is very important for successfully integrating OT services.
Learners will identify strategies to integrate services into the classroom through collaboration, modeling techniques for teachers, and providing coaching.
Learners will recognize the benefits of the co-teaching model and how it can help provide more effective services in the classroom.
Learners will recognize the importance to be flexible and adapt approaches to meet the specific needs and culture of each school or classroom.

Navigating Medicaid Billing for School-Based OTPs Oct 02, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by Medicaid billing and unsure of how to navigate the funding process?

In this episode of the OT Schoolhouse Podcast, Elizabeth & Jason will dive into the world of Medicaid billing. You'll have a basic understanding of Medicaid billing and be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this vital aspect of our profession and have the knowledge to be able to advocate for more support from your supervisors.

Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will understand the process of Medicaid billing in schools
Learners will identify how to advocate for support with your supervisors
Learners will identify the importance of completing random moment time studies

Engaging Students: The Role of a Student Involvement Committee Sep 18, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode, Lisa Lodesky and Kate Schoen discuss their experiences and insights on helping students transition into vocational settings. They share stories, challenges, and successes from their own programs they have created.

Discover the importance of providing diverse options for students, learn about the ability to be inclusive within a therapeutic day school, and gain insights into the transitioning process after graduation. Also, find out about innovative solutions in preparing students for their vocational journeys.

Get ready to be inspired and educated as we explore innovative solutions to prepare students for their vocational journeys
Listen now to learn the following objectives:

Learners will identify the importance of providing vocational opportunities for students to discover interests
Learners will understand how to involve the students and teachers to create a more effective learning environment
Learners will identify the benefits of creating realistic job environments, such as a library stand or post office, to foster pre-vocational skills and engagement among students.