Initial Assessment
The initial assessment will take place at school, home or the clinic. The assessment process is based on clinical observations made by the OT during this time, so it is great to observe the child in one of their key functional environments. It is important for the OT to go through a range of different areas to ensure a holistic approach. Areas may include gross/fine motor skills, sensory processing, body strength, social and emotional skills and independence with daily tasks. The OT will then write an initial report with observations made, goals for ongoing sessions and recommendations.
Sensory Assessments / Report
We offer a range of sensory assessments including the Sensory Profile 2 and Sensory Processing Measure. Both help to identify the effect of sensory processing on a child's participation at home, school, and the community. The therapist will then write a summary report based on this report, with suggestions for sensory resources. This can be highly beneficial for developing an individualised and tailored ‘Sensory Diet’.
Functional Capacity Assessment
The ABAS-3 is the preferred functional assessment. It measures important behaviours and individual displays at home, school, work, and in other settings. It assesses the areas of communication, community use, functional academics, home living, health and safety, leisure and self-care. This can be used to assist with funding applications. The therapist will then complete a report with the results and recommendations.
DASH
We offer a range of Handwriting Assessments including the DASH, ETCH and Handwriting Speed Test. The DASH is the preferred assessment tool to document handwriting and challenges with writing. This can support the application for special provisions for VCE studies.
Transition Review/Meeting
Therapists can complete a transition document to support transitions. This may include starting kindergarten or school, moving to a new school, moving to a new grade or moving from primary to high school. This is highly beneficial to ensure a collaboratively approach to best support the child.
Parent/Teacher Meetings & Sessions
It can be beneficial to have parent and teacher meetings to discuss the progress that has occurred and next steps. It is beneficial to provide updates to the therapist so that they can continue to change their goals and focus of sessions. It can also be beneficial to have parent coaching sessions to demonstrate how the families can be building the OT strategies into the home environment to ensure consistency.
Ongoing Sessions
Ongoing OT and AHA sessions aim to support the development of skills necessary for daily activities, play, and social interaction, in a safe, fun and engaging manner. Working towards achieving the short and long term goals of the client.