Occupational & Physical Therapy

At the Maryland School for the Deaf, our occupational and physical therapists work closely with families, teachers, and staff to support each student's goals as outlined in their Individualized Educational Program (IEP). When appropriate, therapists collaborate with staff to adjust routines or learning environments, empowering students to participate more fully and independently in school life.

 

Our in-house therapists, licensed through the Maryland Department of Health, are experienced in working with Deaf and hard of hearing students and use a range of communication strategies to support engagement. They focus on building motor skills that foster each student's confidence, access, and independence throughout the school day—and beyond. 

• • Handwriting and classroom tool use
  • Feeding and other self-care routines
  • Task analysis (breaking down tasks into manageable steps)
  • Use of adaptive equipment
  • Sensory processing and sensory profiles
  • Visual perception and coordination

 

Students must be evaluated and found eligible to receive occupational or physical therapy as part of their IEP. Eligibility is determined when a student's needs in these areas are shown to impact their ability to participate in school routines and activities. 

 

The skills students develop through occupational and physical therapy support not only their independence at school, but also their confidence and participation at home and in the community. These services are tailored to each student's unique needs as part of the IEP process.

 

If you'd like to learn more about whether your child may benefit from these services, please contact your child's department principal or the Director of Related Services.