Parent’s Perception of Occupational Therapy’s Role in Postsecondary Transition Planning

Abstract

Transition planning and services for students with disabilities works to prepare students for adulthood through services provided through their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Occupational therapy practitioners working on a transition team have a profound role in using their expertise and clinical knowledge to provide students with the skills and tools necessary to achieve maximum independence in adulthood. Because parent and caregiver input in their child’s IEP is critical, it is important that their perspective be considered. The goal of this research is to investigate how parents and caregivers perceive the role of occupational therapy (OT) in preparing students for the transition from school-based services to adult life. Parents and caregivers in Massachusetts (MA) completed an online survey to identify how they believe OT is involved in transition planning. Participants were recruited using informative online flyers, posting in online Facebook groups, and emails sent out to local schools. Results will be used to better define the role of occupational therapy practitioners working on transition planning teams.