The Role of Occupational Therapy in Online Education for SEND Learners

As more schools adopt virtual learning models, many families and educators are asking an important question: How can occupational therapy (OT) support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in online classrooms?

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in helping students develop the skills they need for everyday tasks. In the context of education, OT helps children participate more fully in learning by addressing physical, emotional, sensory, and cognitive challenges. While traditionally delivered in face-to-face settings, occupational therapy can be adapted to support learners in online environments as well.

What Is Occupational Therapy in Education?

Occupational therapy in education focuses on helping children succeed in school-based activities. For SEND learners, this might include:

• Fine motor skills (e.g., handwriting, using a mouse or keyboard)

• Gross motor skills (e.g., posture while seated, moving between tasks)

• Sensory regulation (e.g., managing distractions from sound or light)

• Executive functioning (e.g., planning, focus, and task completion)

• Self-care and independence (e.g., organising materials, staying on schedule)

These skills are essential for participating in lessons, staying focused, and feeling confident in a learning environment, whether in person or online.

How Can Occupational Therapy Support Online Learning?

Online learning presents new challenges for many SEND learners, such as limited physical movement, increased screen time, and reduced peer interaction. However, with creativity and planning, occupational therapy strategies can still be highly effective in a virtual classroom.

Here are some of the ways OT supports students during online education:

1. Adapting Tools and Materials

Occupational therapists can recommend tools that make digital learning easier, such as:

• Keyboards with large keys or adaptive switches

• Touchscreen styluses

• Speech-to-text software

• Visual schedules and timers for time management

These tools help students stay engaged and reduce frustration during lessons.

2. Movement and Sensory Breaks

Many students with SEND need regular movement to stay focused. In online settings, OTs may suggest short sensory or movement breaks during the day, such as:

• Stretching or chair yoga

• Jumping jacks or wall push-ups

• Fidget tools

• Deep breathing or calming visual aids

These breaks help regulate energy levels and improve attention.

3. Creating Supportive Home Learning Spaces

OTs can guide families in creating learning environments that support posture, reduce distractions, and cater to sensory needs. This might involve:

• Using a stable chair and table

• Minimising background noise

• Adjusting the lighting or using noise-cancelling headphones

4. Building Routine and Structure

Consistent routines are especially helpful for children with autism, ADHD, or anxiety. Occupational therapists often help students and families create structured daily schedules with visual cues and step-by-step checklists.

5. Collaborating with Parents and Educators

In online education, collaboration becomes even more important. Occupational therapists (OTs) may work with teachers and caregivers to adapt tasks, monitor

progress, and offer strategies that cater to the student’s unique learning needs.

Understanding Internet-Related Challenges

While online tools offer new ways to access learning, unreliable internet or digital distractions can be barriers. Occupational therapists also help students develop patience, flexibility, and backup strategies for when things don’t go as planned, such as delayed video calls or lost connections.

Making Online Learning Inclusive for All

Occupational therapy remains an essential component of educational support for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) learners, even in digital classrooms. Through adapted tools, personalised strategies, and close collaboration with families and teachers, occupational therapy helps children build independence, confidence, and success in their learning journeys.

By understanding and applying OT principles in online learning, we can work together to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has access to meaningful and inclusive education.