How to Collaborate with Teachers and Parents as a School-Based OT

Strong collaboration is the backbone of effective occupational therapy in schools.

As a school-based OT, working closely with educators and families ensures that your strategies are consistent, practical, and aligned with a child’s everyday environment.

In this blog, I’ll explore the keys to successful collaboration and why it’s essential.

1. Build Trust Early. Start each school year by introducing yourself to teachers and parents.

Share your role, your contact information, and how you plan to support the student.

Being approachable and transparent lays the groundwork for future collaboration.

2. Communicate Consistently. Use regular check-ins, progress notes, or digital updates to keep everyone informed.

Don’t wait until meetings or problems arise—proactive communication ensures you’re seen as a partner, not just a provider.

3. Use Shared Language. Avoid jargon and explain strategies clearly.

When you describe sensory needs or motor delays in ways that teachers and parents understand, they’re more likely to follow through with recommendations.

4. Problem Solve as a Team. Teachers and parents often notice things you may not.

Use their insights when developing intervention plans.

Collaborative problem-solving leads to better outcomes and helps everyone feel heard.

5. Respect Everyone’s Expertise. Teachers know their classroom, parents know their child, and you know OT.

Bringing these perspectives together creates well-rounded, effective support.

Why It Matters: Students thrive when adults in their lives work together.

Consistent support across home and school environments builds skills faster and leads to better carryover of strategies.

Remember, you are part of a team. Building connections helps to support each student you are working with.

Looking for more support? Click here to contact me and learn about my school-based OT practitioners mentoring program.