Starting school can be an exciting time, where children learn new skills, build new relationships and often leave their family and carers for the first time. As children start on their schooling journey, there are lots of new experiences but also challenges they will face, and sometimes these take us by surprise.
Evidence indicates that children with language impairment often experience difficulties with motor coordination and self-regulation. The difficulties may be apparent when the child is young, however it may be more noticeable when the child has to engage in new tasks that really challenge their skills, such as learning a new skill in school. Many families will already be on their journey supporting their child’s language skills but may not have noticed challenges with their child’s motor skills or self-regulation.
Occupational Therapy (OT) can support these areas and that is why the Fremantle Language Development Centre (LDC) utilises the services of a consultant OT to support teachers to assist student participation and enhance student engagement in classroom programs. This can include teacher training, provision of resources, assessment and referral of children and whole school programming. You can learn more about this service by watching this video: https://screencast-o-matic.com/watch/cYXniZsKn4
If we feel that your child may need more targeted support to master some of the skills required for school, we may also refer your child for Occupational Therapy through a private provider or the Child Development Services.
The OT support at the Fremantle LDC does not replace an OT service. Families are encouraged to maintain contact with their OT if they are accessing services or have been recommended to seek the support of an external Occupational Therapist.
For more information about OT support, visit:
https://fremantleldc.wa.edu.au/programs/occupational-therapy/
www.lil-peeps.com.au
I look forward to supporting the Fremantle LDC in 2021!
Berry Johnston
(Consultant OT)
lil.peeps@hotmail.com
0417 961 276