At least in MCPS you cannot get an IEP solely for OT because it is a related service only. You have to first qualify for a primary special education service like resource or speech, and only then can you get OT.

Sorry for typos guys I was on my phone.

Anonymous wrote:In order to get OT, you will have to go through the IEP process. If you want to go that route, you should contact your daughter's principal to request that the process be started.

Put the request in writing. An email will suffice.

OP, I would not hesitate to initiate the IEP process. If you have private coverage for OT, I would pursue that as well. It may take some time to get it started if she qualifies. I've had better luck with private OTs and found the public school OTs to vary in quality.

Also, given the difficulty she has with certain skills, definitely take her to the playground often. Try swimming to build the core strength. This can help with fine motor skills like handwriting b/c you need to maintain posture when writing. At home try things like the wheelbarrow walk.

In her private school srring the teacher stated she was lazy and just did not like to write or take P.E. i am just happy i am starti.g the process to get her help. I have been trying for years but they kept harping on she has no academic concerns.

Thank you she will be coming from private and entering second grade in public school next year. Children national medical center recommended OT. Very bright child but she struggles to keep up with the kids when she has to put it on paper. Struggles to tye shoes, climb, or even put on clothes. She was accepted to talented and gifted program academically she can handle it but my concern she will not be able to complete work and test as fast.

Our school OT currently works on typing and taught DS how to tie his shoes, use utensils, zippers, buttons, etc. as well as handwriting. We are at a DC charter.

You can always ask.

We did both and the school was always informed and provided any reports we got from the private OT. For those who don't know, a private OT works on more 'life' skills and a school OT works more on 'educational' skills. There is some overlap, most notably in writing, use of scissors, visual/motor discrimination, etc. A private OT worked with my DS on tying his shoes - not something a school OT would typically do. A school OT worked with my DS to learn to type - a private OT could do that, too, but typing is clearly a academic need.

Not knowing your DD, I'd recommend you have her evaluated privately, give the report to the school and have them evaluate her as well to see what services she may qualify for. Our kids needed the interventions from both.

You can do both and you don't have to tell them. Even if you did, they can't hold it against you. But your child is in school all day so I imagine it will be tough to schedule an appointment into her day.

If the person who evaluated your daughter provided a written report, submit that to the school to get the ball rolling.

For those that did both did u let the school know. If they see you have private OT do you think they will deny school services?

In order to get OT, you will have to go through the IEP process. If you want to go that route, you should contact your daughter's principal to request that the process be started.

Anonymous wrote:We did both

ditto

Anonymous wrote:Tell the school in writing that you would like to have an OT evaluation for your daughter. Don't let them tell you they can't do it.

Why if she has private Coverage?

Tell the school in writing that you would like to have an OT evaluation for your daughter. Don't let them tell you they can't do it.

We did both

My daughter needs to strengthen her motor skills in her hands. We had her evaluated and said the treatment should be occupational therapy. Should i seek services through the school or my insurance or can you do both ? If i go through school what do i need to do to start process?