Education for Children with Disabilities: The Therapist Perspective

In a recent webinar, Dr Amrapali and Ms. Manisha, both seasoned occupational therapists, discussed how schools are addressing the needs of children with disabilities. The conversation focused on how Special Education Needs Departments in schools support children with developmental delays, physical disabilities, and behavioral issues.

Dr Amrapali emphasized that children with visible physical challenges often receive more attention within school setups, as their needs are immediately apparent. She highlighted that while schools provide services like physiotherapy, the allotted time for therapy is usually insufficient. Thus, therapists often recommend that parents seek additional therapy outside of school to ensure the child receives continuous care.

The conversation also touched on the importance of ongoing therapy for children with mild developmental delays. Dr Amrapali stressed that if these children do not receive adequate support, their conditions may worsen, making it harder for them to reintegrate into the education system later on. However, the schools are often constrained by the high number of students compared to the limited number of professionals available.

Ms Manisha discussed progressive disabilities, explaining how conditions like cerebral palsy, though not inherently progressive, can lead to a regression of motor skills as the child grows. She noted that as bones grow longer, muscles become tighter, leading to increased difficulty in movement. As a result, physiotherapy must be maintained consistently, especially during periods of growth, to prevent worsening symptoms.

Addressing behavioral challenges, Ms. Manisha pointed out that hyperactivity and other issues often stem from sensory difficulties rather than just behavior problems. She explained that occupational therapy can help children manage their sensory sensitivities, improving their ability to adapt to different environments.

Finally, they discussed assistive technologies, such as communication apps like "Let Me Talk" and "Jellow." These apps help non-verbal children communicate more effectively, especially in a way that aligns with their cultural context and needs. Ms. Manisha stressed the importance of developing life skills alongside education to ensure holistic support for children with disabilities.

The webinar provided an insightful look into the role of occupational therapists in schools and the broader strategies for supporting children with disabilities in their educational and developmental journeys.