Occupational Therapist’s Job Description

What Your Students Might Want You to Know

Listen to me. Learn from me. Let me learn. Be trustworthy. Always speak kindly.

Help me connect with other students. Let me fail sometimes.

Ask, “What do you need?” Support. Handle me with care. Be belonging. Be safe. Be there, but give me space. Hear me. When I have difficulties, kindly redirect. Be gentle. Allow us to create together, laugh together, and have fun together. Encourage independence. If I am loud, be quiet. Remember, I am a person first. Encourage softly.

Encourage interdependence. Share positive stories with parents. Attribute the best possible motive consistent with the facts. Assume competence always. When I am happy, step back.

Be a learner yourself. Allow choice.

Ask, “How can I best help you?” Redirect softly. Step back. Relax. Assume friendship is possible. Set me up to be successful. Watch me thrive. Do not control. Speak softly. Follow my lead. Give me space. Breathe.

The Occupational Therapist’s Handbook for Inclusive School Practices—By Dr. Julie Causton & Chelsea P. Tracy-Bronson