Cindy Avila In a nutshell: Occupational Therapist's assess levels of functional ability and performance in everyday activities, school activities etc and prescribe 'Sensory Diets' or care plans to help improve function. In children with autism, this can be fine motor activities or large movement activities. Both of these activities help with the development of neural pathways in the brain which can aid with concentration and can help with sensory function. A speech and language therapist assesses age appropriate speech ability and then designs activities to help develop these. These may be activities to develop the fine muscles in the face and mouth, or looking at using other methods to communicate with the student or child. This may include iPad programmes, Makaton signing or other communication tools. Of course it is a lot more complex than this, but I hope this answers your question?
