Family-Based Developmental Monitoring to Identify Children with Possible Developmental Delays

Please join the Children and Youth Special Interest Section and the School Based Community of Practice for a practice chat designed to help you untangle clinical versus educational sensory conversations and confidently collaborate with school teams and families.

This session draws on AOTA resources, IDEA, and ESSA to explore the occupational therapy practitioner’s role in addressing sensory needs within the educational setting.

Participants will examine common sensory terminology, clarify scope of practice, and apply professional reasoning to support data-driven, defensible decision-making-all with the goal of improving meaningful student participation in the school environment.

Our chat will be facilitated by:

Moira P. Bushell, OTD, MEd, OTR/L, BCP, FAOTA is a nationally recognized occupational therapy leader, clinician, educator, and advocate whose work is grounded in a deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Her work focuses on advancing equitable systems, influencing education policy and empowering students, families, and professionals through evidence-based practice, leadership and mentorship.

Vera Gallagher, OTD, MSED, OTR/L, BCP, is an occupational therapist, educator and professional development consultant with more than 30 years of experience in school-based practice. A state and national presenter, researcher and AOTA Board-Certified Pediatric Specialist she is passionate about advocacy and translating evidence into practical strategies that improve student participation and educational outcomes.

Joyce E. Rioux, EdD, OTR/L, SCSS, FAOTA is a consultant with the Capitol Region Education Council & CT State Department of Education whose career has spanned administration, practice and professional leadership. As a presenter, editor, author and leader of state and national school practice initiatives she brings extensive experience supporting practice, policy and professional guidance.

This practice chat will be recorded.

All are welcome!