Occupational Therapy (OT) is a branch of health care that helps people of all ages who have physical, sensory or cognitive problems.  OT can help them attain functional independence in all areas of their lives.  Occupational Therapists help with barriers that affect a person’s emotional, social and physical needs.  To do this, they use everyday activities, exercises and adaptive equipment and strategies.

OT’s help kids play, improve their school performance and aides with daily activities.  OT can help:

• Fine motor skills, such as grasping, releasing, handwriting and computer skills

• Improve eye hand coordination skills to do both one and 2 handed tasks

• Master basic life skills such as bathing, getting dressed, brushing teeth and self-feeding

• Learn positive behaviors and social skills by practicing how to manage frustration and assist with sensory processing skills

• Get special equipment to help build their independence- such as wheelchairs, splints, sensory items, dressing devices, etc.

OT’s help with a wide variety of difficulties.  Some of these include developmental delays, birth injuries, sensory processing disorders, traumatic injuries to brain and spinal cord, learning problems, autism, chromosomal abnormalities, mental health and behavioral problems.  OT’s work with the individual and their caregivers and school staff to help maximize independence in all areas and provide strategies for success.

We receive referrals for eligibility whenever children are birth through three in our Early Intervention program.  Based on their diagnosis or results from testing, those children can qualify for OT, PT and Speech services.  We will work with the families throughout that time teaching them strategies to build independence and help their child perform to the best of their abilities.  One the child turns three, they can choose to attend any preschool they like.  For those kids that choose Hopewell School, we continue to work with them here in our preschool setting.  We work with the staff to teach them ways to maximize success for each child as well as 1:1 therapy sessions.  Therapy works in all parts of our school.  This can include the playground, the hallways, the sensory room and the cafeteria.  Some of the kids who receive therapy in preschool then go on the public schools.  However, the kids who stay here at Hopewell for both our school age and transition classrooms continue to receive therapy services both direct and in consultation with the staff.  As these children continue to grow into adulthood, therapy services continue to be available for consultation services in the home and community settings.  Being able to work with individuals throughout their lives is something that the therapists here at COSHDD value the most and believe it is a true privilege to be a part of the DD community.

We are pleased to give out Direct Support Professional Appreciation Awards! The "Rockstar Rookie" award goes to Julie Robinson!

Her nominator said, "Julie is “Loved” by everyone! The individuals, families, and team members ask for Julie, by name. Julie entered the DD system in July of 2020 with a huge heart, outgoing personality and a unique ability to make everyone feel relaxed and welcome, everyday. She is everyone’s friend and advocate."