Occupational Therapy Month is a wonderful opportunity for us to engage with colleagues, share insights about our profession, and take a moment to celebrate the meaningful work we do.
It’s a time to reflect on our achievements, raise awareness, and strengthen the connections within our professional community.
Over the years, I’ve celebrated OT Month in various creative and engaging ways. One of my favorite activities has been organizing poster contests in schools and programs. I encourage physical therapy and speech-language pathology colleagues to serve as judges, and the winning room or group receives a special certificate along with a new material for their space, like playdough, a matching activity, or a BINGO board. This simple but fun activity not only fosters collaboration but also brings a sense of pride to the participants.
In other years, I’ve put together quizzes for my colleagues to help them better understand my role at the school. I make sure to include bonus questions, like naming an OT/COTA, PT/PTA, and SLP/SLPA at the school. Those who achieve a perfect score are entered into a drawing for a gift card, adding a bit of friendly competition. This activity has been eye-opening, highlighting both areas of misunderstanding about my role and opportunities to introduce myself to more staff members. It’s been a valuable way to bridge gaps and promote collaboration.
I also make it a point to reach out to administration, including special education team leaders and principals, to share practical strategies during team meetings. Whether it’s tips for incorporating fine motor activities, sensory regulation strategies, or movement breaks to enhance focus, these discussions help integrate OT practices into everyday routines—ultimately promoting a more effective learning environment.
Occupational Therapy Month is not just about celebrating our profession but also about building awareness, fostering connections, and making an impact within our communities.
How do you plan to celebrate this year?
Author: Karlyn M. Goodman, OTR/L
