When occupational therapists are integrated into general classroom activities, student challenges can be addressed early, writes Linda Rini, an occupational therapist, in an eSchool News essay.
She describes five strategies can be integrated into daily routines to help students become independent and confident:
1) Address motor skills. At the kindergarten level, this can include using a “scissor template” to guide proper finger placement; offering verbal cues like “thumbs up” to remind children how to hold the tool correctly; encouraging use of a “helper hand” to move the paper and reinforces bilateral coordination; providing small pencils or broken crayons to develop a mature grasp pattern and better handwriting skills; sitting with feet flat on the floor and elbows slightly above the tabletop for good posture; adjustable desks; sturdy footrests; non-slip mats; and warm-up activities — animal walks or yoga poses for example – conducted before seated work to prepare the sensory system to focus and to promote better posture.
2) Executive function skills set the foundation for academic performance. This involves organization, planning and self-regulation techniques. These skills can be aided by visual reminders, checklists, and color-coded materials to boost organization. Break larger assignments into smaller tasks and use timers to help time management. Social stories, behavior charts, and reward systems can both motivate and improve impulse control, self-awareness, and flexibility.
3) Focus on social-emotional learning (SEL). Traditional playground games like Red Light/Green Light or Simon Says encourage turn-taking and following directions. The Zones of Regulation use color-coded illustrations to help children recognize their emotions. The “blue zone” represents low energy or boredom; the “green zone” is calm and focused; the “yellow zone” signals fidgetiness or loss of control; and the “red zone” reflects anger or frustration. Create a personal “menu” of coping strategies–deep breathing, counting to 10, or squeezing a stress ball, for instance–to help children manage their emotions. Caring for a class pet can build empathy, responsibility and social growth.
4) Body awareness and smooth transitions are important because some children struggle to maintain personal space or focus. Vertical jumps or marching in place prepare students for hall walking. Changing between tiptoe and heel walking can engage students during key transitions. Inflatable cushions, small carpet squares, or marked spots on the floor help build awareness of personal space.
5) Support sensory processing. Promoting focus and regulation by using fabric light covers to reduce glare, or scents to calm or energize students at different times. Motor breaks during transitions–yoga stretches, pushing, pulling, or stomping activities–help reset the sensory system. A “calming corner” with mats, pillows, weighted blankets, and quiet activities is a safe space for regaining focus for students with higher sensory needs.
Research shows that co-teaching and sharing strategies between occupational therapists and teachers – produces improved student outcomes.
eSchool News
