Occupational therapy is designed to assist a child who is experiencing delays in the development of fine motor skills. Occupational therapy affects fine motor skills that involve precise controlled movements of the hand to perform an activity. Adequate fine motor skill development is dependent upon many functions. Some of these functions include: sufficient control of large and small muscles of the body, accurate perception of sensory information, adequate eye-hand control, coordinated use of both sides of the body, and development of hand dominance. In school, these skills are necessary for tool use (e.g., scissors, pencils), tying shoes, and managing fasteners on back packs or lunch boxes. Treatment interventions would involve the introduction of activities or exercises which strengthen appropriate muscle groups, provide repetitive practice opportunities, and the introduction of adaptive aides if necessary.

Physical therapy is designed to assist a child who is experiencing delays in the development of gross motor skills. This service affects how students coordinate their body positions and move from one location to another within the classroom and other school environments. Gross motor skills involve the child s large muscle groups. These muscle groups are used in successfully engaging in age appropriate physical challenges such as walking up and down steps, moving about in the classroom or playground, and succeeding in school based physical fitness programs.

The NESC staff includes five registered occupational therapists, three certified occupational therapist assistants, and one physical therapists. In addition, some PT services are provided on a contract basis with outside providers.


The objective of these services is helping all children reach their maximum potential, becoming happy, secure, successful persons who can enjoy themselves, others, and the world around them. All children, adolescents, and young adults, regardless of their individual needs, are served. Assistance is provided as a joint venture with parents, teachers and administrators.