OT (Occupational Therapy): Beyond the Handwriting
From SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh my! Conversations with DCSEAC by DCSEAC
March 30, 2026 · 28 min · Season 1 · Episode 27
About this episode
Host Meredith interviews Patty Kreinbrink to explore the role of school-based occupational therapy beyond just handwriting.
pisode: OT Beyond the Handwriting Special Ed IEPs, 504s & Conversations with DCSEAC Guest: Patty Kreinbrink, Occupational Therapist Lead, Douglas County School District Episode Summary: Host Meredith sits down with Patty Kreinbrink, the OT Lead for Douglas County Schools, to pull back the curtain on what school-based occupational therapy really is — and isn't. From sensory processing and core strength to the difference between school OT and private clinic OT, this episode is packed with insights for parents navigating IEPs and 504 plans. Topics Covered: What OT actually does in schools beyond handwriting How core strength connects to writing skills Sensory processing vs. misbehavior — how OTs tell the difference Proactive vs. reactive use of sensory tools School-based OT vs. private/clinic OT: key differences Collaborative goal writing and why it changed Shoe tying, life skills, and SSN students What "educationally necessary" actually means OT in an IEP vs. OT in a 504 plan The CERT tool: how Douglas County ensures consistent, individualized services What language to use at an IEP meeting if you're concerned about fine motor or sensory needs Assistive technology and…
People in this episode
Host: Meredith
Guest: Patty Kreinbrink
Topics covered
- occupational therapy
- IEPs
- 504 plans
- sensory processing
- core strength
- school-based OT
- assistive technology
Keywords
- occupational therapy
- IEP
- 504 plan
- sensory processing
- core strength
- assistive technology
- fine motor skills
- early intervention
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Douglas County School District
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