Supporting children with physical needs
Paediatric occupational therapists play a crucial role in supporting children with physical needs both at home and in school.
At home, they work closely with families to identify suitable seating solutions, bathing aids, or practical home modifications—such as ramps, grab rails etc. They also provide training and guidance on safe moving and handling techniques to reduce the risk of injury for both the child and their caregivers.
Similarly, in the school environment, it is essential that moving and handling procedures are followed consistently to ensure the child’s safety and comfort during daily activities and transitions. Occupational therapists collaborate with school staff to implement these procedures and may suggest adapting the classroom environment with necessary equipment and modifications, like adapted desks, supportive chairs, and transfer aids.
If you are a member of school staff and looking for guidance on supporting a child or young person with physical needs, please look at our Moving and Handling Guidance booklet for advice. You can also speak to your allocated school OT, or make a referral to OT if you feel the child may need equipment or adaptations at school.
Supporting Students with Physical Needs in Mainstream Settings
Our training video on Supporting Students with Physical Needs in Mainstream Settings is designed to help school staff understand and overcome barriers to inclusion for children with physical needs in mainstream school settings. It covers ideas to create an inclusive culture that ensures access to the curriculum and environment, broadens understanding of physical conditions, raises awareness of manual handling needs and health and safety issues and highlights the importance of making reasonable adjustments.
