The Best Places to Find OT Services for Homeschool Families

You have often heard me say that homeschooling is not alone schooling.  Yes, as homeschoolers, we are choosing a path for education that involves fewer paid professionals.  But, that does not mean we must do everything ourselves.  Nor does it mean that we must know everything.  It does mean that we can seek out the team to support us and our children.  

Today, I want to dive into the world of Occupational Therapy (OT) and share some insights on when and how seeking OT services and support might be the best thing you can do for your child, yourself, or your homeschool journey. 

What is Occupational Therapy?

Our role is to work with clients on what they specifically need and want to do or how they occupy their time hence the term OCCUPATION- 

Occupational Therapists are like detectives, investigating the intricacies of cognitive, motor, and social skills that each unique occupation demands. Some examples are building strength, enhancing coordination, or fostering self-advocacy to empower individuals to succeed in their chosen activities. This also might involve tweaking the environment, such as adjusting seating for better handwriting or adding grab bars to a bathroom. We’re also here to guide families in structuring their day for optimal alertness and regulation. Lastly, we adapt the activities themselves (occupations)—ever tried grippers, assistive technology, or dressing aides? That’s the breadth and depth of our role.

Areas of Occupational Therapy

Before we dive into the options for OT services to you, it’s also important to recognize we divide these “occupations” into 9 main areas.  Stick with me, these areas affect the services you can access.

The 9 areas occupational therapists support are:

1. Activities of Daily Living or (ADL’s)- things you do every day- get dressed, brush your teeth, go to the restroom, eat
2. Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)- harder areas that support ADL’s- grocery shopping, driving, cooking)
3. Work
4. Play
5. Recreation/ Leisure
6. Social Participation
7. Education
8. Rest/ Sleep
9. Communication management- sending, receiving, and interpreting information writing, devices etc. 

Now, armed with this understanding, let’s explore the different avenues available to you in the world of Occupational Therapy for homeschool families.

School-Based OT Services

Because of the way our school system is structured, school-based OTs must focus on the areas of occupation that align with the school setting. Yes, children still have to put on shoes or take off coats which could allow for goals in the ADL area; they use computers and technology allowing for communication management goals; they socially interact with peers allowing for some social participation goals.  However, testing and treatment primarily refer to a child’s ability to participate in academics in the classroom setting. 

When would services through the school system be helpful for homeschooled kids?

Struggles with Reading, Writing, or Math: If your child is facing challenges in these areas, the school system might be an excellent place to seek testing and services. Each state has different regulations, so check with your state homeschool organization for specifics.

Most schools require an IEP to receive services and some require partial enrollment, check with your state laws and local district.

Medical-Based OT Services

Next up is the medical system, often initiated with a referral from a physician. OTs within this system can cover a broader range of areas, allowing for a more holistic approach. However, some downsides exist, such as the need to pathologize weaknesses for insurance purposes.

1. **Areas Covered by Medical System OTs:**

•  ADLs, IADLs, Play, Social Participation, Recreation/ Leisure, Rest/ SleepCommunication Management: These therapists have the flexibility to address various areas of occupation.

2. **Challenges within the Medical System:**

• Pathologizing Weaknesses: A downside is the necessity to highlight weaknesses to prove medical necessity.
• Limited Parent Education: Time constraints and insurance regulations may limit the therapist’s ability to provide extensive parent education.

Cash-Based OT Services:

Lastly, there are cash-based OT services, often considered more flexible but come with a price tag. These services allow for a more comprehensive approach but can be financially challenging for some families.

1. **Freedom and Flexibility:**

• Nature-Based Practices: Some practices operate outside traditional systems, offering more freedom in addressing ADLs, IADLs, Play, Social Participation, and Education.

2. **Downside: Cost:**

• Expense: Cash-based services can be costly, potentially limiting access for certain socioeconomic groups.

In the world of occupational therapy, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each option comes with its pros and cons. As you navigate these choices, remember that I’m here to help you wrestle through decisions. 

Together, let’s find the approach that suits your family best—because your child’s journey is unique, and so are the solutions that will support them on their path to success.

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