Additional Related Services

What are Related Services?

Related Services are school-based supports that help students succeed in the classroom and school environment. They are not academic classes, but they give students the skills and tools they need to reach their goals.

Most related services are provided through a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and are designed to match the goals in that plan. Two common related services are Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT).

Occupational Therapy (OT)

School-based occupational therapists (OTs) help students develop the skills they need to participate in learning and daily school activities. In schools, OT is always connected to a child’s educational goals.

OTs may work with students on skills such as:

• Movement and strength – posture, balance, stability
• Sensory processing – how children respond to movement, touch, and body awareness
• Fine-motor skills – hand strength, finger coordination, using both hands together
• Handwriting and visual-motor skills – eye-hand coordination, copying from the board
• Self-help skills – managing clothing, using classroom tools, organizing materials
• Pre-vocational skills – preparing for independence and life skills

Support may include direct therapy with the student, consulting with the teacher, adjusting the classroom environment, providing adaptive tools, or training school staff.

Physical Therapy (PT)

School-based physical therapists (PTs) help students with physical challenges that affect their ability to move and participate at school. Like OT, PT is connected to educational goals in a child’s IEP.

PTs may work with students on skills such as:

• Movement and strength – range of motion, balance, posture, stability
• Gross-motor development – walking, climbing stairs, playground participation
• Motor planning and coordination – learning how to use arms, legs, and body together
• Navigating the school environment – moving between classrooms, managing stairs, transitions
• Adaptive equipment needs – wheelchairs, orthotics, supportive seating, helmets

Support may also include direct therapy with the student, consulting with teachers, adjusting the school environment, providing adaptive equipment, or staff training.

✅ Big picture: Both OT and PT in school focus on helping students access their education and participate fully in the school day. These services are not about medical treatment—they are about making sure each child can learn, move, and thrive in their school environment.