Speech and Language Pathology
Children may require speech & language pathology for a variety of reasons, such as: impairments to hearing, delays in cognitive (thinking, intellectual) or other developmental domains; weakened mouth muscles, persistent hoarseness, autism caused by a cleft palate or lip, issues with motor planning, difficulties with speech, fluency issues, respiratory issues (disorders of breathing), disorders related to eating and swallowing & traumatic brain injury. It is best to start therapy as soon as possible. Early therapy starts (before the age of five) are generally associated with better outcomes than later starts.
Physical Therapy
Pediatric physical therapists work with children to improve their range of motion, strength, flexibility, and movement patterns. The goal is to assist children in moving their bodies when and how they want to the best of their abilities. Pediatric physical therapists assist children with daily activities. Consent is needed for these services.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SUSPECT MY CHILD NEEDS STUDENT SERVICES SUPPORT?
You are in a unique position to understand your child’s learning struggles and abilities since you are a parent. Talk to your child’s teacher about your concerns if you think they may need additional support. Be prepared to answer questions regarding the child’s developmental history to identify what services might best cater to their needs. You may be asked to sign a consent form.
WHAT IS AN INCLUSION AND INTERVENTION PLAN?
A collaborative team creates and implements an inclusion and intervention plan (IIP), which is a written document. It is a list of the learning objectives that the student prioritizes during the year.
TYPES OF SUPPORT OFFERED BY STUDENT SERVICES TEACHER
- Diagnostic testing: WJ IV
- ACH, WJ IV OL, PVAT, Little Bee Articulation tests, etc.
- Program planning assistance/materials selection (adaptations, modifications)
- Student services teacher to assist through cooperative/team teaching in the classroom. Student to receive additional assistance in pull-out setting for specific tasks (speech, reading, math, etc.) for a limited time.
- Referral to NLSD for assessment: Educational Psychology, Speech and Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy
- Assistance in garnering support from external organizations for students.
WHAT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE WHEN A REFERRAL IS SUBMITTED
In keeping with Response to Intervention (RTI), your child may need to see a specialists to get further assistance with their learning.
Educational Psychology
When teachers notice a student struggling academically or emotionally/behaviorally, they refer them to an educational psychologist. The school would have completed academic assessments & observations prior to completing the referral. The Educational Psychologist is able to make recommendations and diagnosis that will positively impact the child’s development.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists assist students in overcoming barriers that affect their emotional, social, and physical needs. They use everyday activities, exercises, and other therapies to accomplish this. OT helps children play, improve academic performance, and assists with daily activities.
