- What Was Achieved?
- P4C OTs reached more children overall and children with special needs were seen more frequently.
- Description of the Children
- A detailed description is available for 246 children who became research participants.
- Individual Child Outcomes
- Children were better able to participate in school settings with improvement in behaviour and participation at home and in the community.
- Extent of Motor Difficulties
- Children were identified as a result of OTs spending consistent time observing children in various school settings throughout their day.
Findings from the Partnering for Change Project
Implementation of the Partnering for Change (P4C) model of service delivery resulted in earlier identification of children with special needs. Children who received the service demonstrated increased participation at school. Children with motor coordination challenges and other co-occurring health conditions, who had not previously been recognized, were identified when the occupational therapist (OT) spent regular time observing them in school. No formal assessments or diagnoses were required for service.
- Far more children were reached by P4C OTs using a tiered approach.
- Children’s ability to participate more independently improved across the school year.
- Children who were in need of service were identified at a younger age in the P4C model. Relatively more girls were also identified.
- Children were seen by the P4C OT many times in a year, if needed. The frequency of service was based on need rather than a “one size fits all” approach.