Life Skills Academy offers Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Physical Therapy during the school day to students who qualify for the service. We have two different models for our therapy service, the medical model and the school-based model:
Because our therapists can observe each student in their natural environment and collaborate with teachers, they are able to weave each student's goals into their everyday life. Our approach ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By delivering therapy within the school environment, we aim to minimize disruptions to learning while maximizing effectiveness of interventions. Our interdisciplinary team collaborates closely with educators to create tailored plans that address each student's unique needs, fostering their success throughout their education.
Occupational Therapy is a specialized branch of therapy that focuses on helping children develop the skills they need to participate fully in daily activities and routines. Occupational therapists work with children to address a wide range of challenges including developmental delays, sensory processing difficulties, physical disabilities, and cognitive impairments. Occupational therapists assess a child's strengths and areas for improvement, then design individualized treatment plans to improve their performance in activities such as play, self-care, school tasks, and social interactions. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques, including sensory integration therapy, fine motor exercises, and environmental modifications, pediatric occupational therapists help children to build independence, confidence, and resilience.
Speech and Language Therapy aims to support children in developing effective communication skills and overcoming difficulties related to speech and language. Speech-language pathologists work with children who may face challenges such as articulation disorders, language delays, stuttering, voice disorders, or social communication difficulties. Therapy sessions may involve activities to improve speech clarity, expand vocabulary, enhance grammar and syntax, or develop pragmatic language skills for effective social interactions.
Physical Therapy aims to improve the physical abilities and functional independence of children. Pediatric physical therapists work with children who have a variety of conditions, including congenital disorders, developmental delays, neurological impairments, orthopedic injuries, and genetic syndromes. Physical therapists address challenges related to mobility, strength, balance, coordination, and overall physical function. They utilize a range of therapeutic techniques such as exercise programs, gait training, and assistive device prescription. Physical therapy interventions help children to participate fully in daily activities, sports, and recreational pursuits, promoting their overall health, well-being, and lifelong independence.
We know that effective communication between therapists and parents is crucial to student success, so we strive to make it as convenient as possible for parents and caregivers to connect with us. For immediate assistance or inquiries, we encourage you to reach out to us via text message at (863) 774-7714. You can also email Genola.Cablish@LSApolk.org with any questions or concerns regarding therapy.