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Wrapping Up Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy Sessions at the End of the School Year
June 22, 2023As the school year comes to a close, occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) play integral roles in concluding their treatment sessions, ensuring a smooth transition for students who have received therapy throughout the academic year. Effective wrapping up of therapy sessions is vital for evaluating progress, providing closure, and preparing students for the next phase of their therapeutic journey. In this blog, we will explore the key steps and considerations occupational and physical therapists should take when concluding their sessions at the end of the school year.
Assessing Progress:
Review individual goals: Evaluate the progress made by each student by revisiting their initial goals and objectives. Document achievements, areas of improvement, and remaining challenges in occupational and physical therapy domains.
Conduct assessments: Administer relevant assessments and standardized tests to measure the student's development and compare results with baseline data.
Gather feedback: Seek input from teachers, parents, and other professionals involved in the student's care to understand the progress made and areas that still require attention.
Collaborating with the Educational Team:
Team meetings: Organize meetings with teachers, special education coordinators, and other relevant team members to discuss each student's progress, share observations, and develop strategies for continued support.
Document transfer of information: Create concise and comprehensive summaries of the student's achievements, challenges, and recommendations. Share these documents with the new therapist or relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth handover.
Communicating with Students and Parents:
Celebrate achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate the student's progress in both occupational and physical therapy progress. Encourage positive reinforcement and praise for their hard work and commitment.
Discuss goals and expectations: Engage with the student and their parents, discussing the goals achieved during the year and identifying future objectives. Set realistic expectations and outline plans for ongoing support in both therapy disciplines.
Offer resources and recommendations: Provide families with resources, strategies, and activities they can continue at home to reinforce progress and maintain therapeutic gains in both occupational and physical therapy.