As teachers settle into the school year and get to know their new cohort of students, they may already be identifying challenges or noticing students who require additional support. However, knowing which students might benefit from extra support isn’t always straightforward –especially when their needs aren’t immediately visible.
For teachers, having the right tools and confidence to identify these needs early can make all the difference, particularly when it comes to initiating sensitive conversations with parents.
Ailsa Leslie and Catherine Daly, Professional Practice Advisors from Occupational Therapy Australia, offer educators practical advice on identifying students who could benefit from OT and how teachers can confidently raise the topic with parents in a positive, supportive way.
Below, Leslie and Daly tell The Educator how OT can support both educators and students by providing much-needed clarity on the role of OT and its significant benefits for student development.
TE: What does classroom misbehaviour tell us?
Every behaviour is a form of communication. As teachers, you’re already balancing numerous tasks, and it can be overwhelming when a student acts out. However, it is important to recognise that these behaviours are often signals of deeper challenges, in areas such as motor skills, sensory modulation or self-regulation. For example, a child who cannot sit still may be seeking movement to help regulate their attention, or a student avoiding writing may be dealing with motor coordination issues. Rather than seeing these behaviours as disruptive, try viewing them as clues to unmet needs. Occupational therapists (OTs) can provide valuable strategies to support students and help teachers understand the meaning behind students’ behaviours, enabling them to manage complex classroom dynamics and reduce disruptions.
TE: Drawing on your experience, can you share some classroom management techniques for diverse learners?
Managing a diverse classroom is challenging, and time is always limited. However, there are strategies that can help meet the needs of all learners without overwhelming you. Fidget-friendly tools, like stress balls or wobble stools, can help students stay focused without taking up much time. Visual schedules are great for reducing anxiety and providing clarity, especially for students who benefit from knowing what is coming next. Flexible seating options, such as standing desks or floor seating, allow students to choose a position that works best for them and can improve focus. Adjusting teaching styles, such as using sentence starters or providing extra time to process instructions, ensures all students can engage. Movement breaks, provided through assigning class roles or a quick movement routine between classroom activities give students the chance to regulate their needs and return to tasks refreshed. An OT can work with you to tailor strategies to meet the individual needs of your students and your classroom.
TE: What are the red flags to look for when identifying students who may benefit from OT?
As a teacher, it can be difficult to identify students who might benefit from occupational therapy (OT), however, there are some red flags to look for. The key is noticing persistent difficulties that impact the student’s ability to participate in everyday school activities. If a student consistently struggles with handwriting, such as holding a pencil or forming letters, they may need support with their motor skills. Emotional outbursts or withdrawal can be signs of self-regulation difficulties, while social struggles, such as avoiding group work, may indicate a need for extra support. If a student is disengaged, avoids tasks, or even refuses to come to school, it may suggest that deeper challenges are affecting their ability to participate fully in class. Spotting these early signs can help provide the right support before the challenges become more disruptive.
TE: How can teachers and OTs collaborate effectively?
Collaboration between teachers and occupational therapists (OTs) is essential for creating an inclusive classroom. Teachers already have many responsibilities, so working with an OT can provide valuable support without adding to your workload. OTs bring expertise in addressing barriers to participation in school life, focussing on sensory, motor and social-emotional needs. Rather than pulling students out of class for therapy, OTs can work with teachers to incorporate strategies into daily activities, so students benefit from support throughout the week. Regular communication between teachers and OTs ensures that strategies are practical and manageable. When teachers and OTs work together, they can create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that meets the needs of all students.