Parsons Preschool is a special education preschool that services pre-school aged students ages 3 - 5 with varying support needs. We are a 12-month program following the DOE calendar in regards to breaks and holidays. The Physical Therapist provides school-based physical therapy services to preschool-aged children with disabilities as identified in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The PT supports student participation, mobility, and independence within the educational environment by developing and implementing individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the IEP team.
The responsibilities of the Physical Therapist include but are not limited to:
Provide direct physical therapy services to preschool-aged students as mandated in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Assess students’ motor skills and functional abilities to determine therapy needs, using formal and informal evaluation tools.
Develop individualized treatment plans and goals in collaboration with the IEP team, focusing on improving mobility, posture, balance, coordination, strength, and independence.
Support access to the educational environment by addressing barriers related to mobility, positioning, and participation in classroom activities.
Adapt equipment and recommend assistive devices as needed (e.g., standers, walkers, adapted seating) to enhance safety and independence.
Collaborate with teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers to integrate therapeutic strategies into the daily classroom routine.
Train and guide staff and families on safe handling, positioning, and strategies to support students’ physical needs.
Document therapy sessions, progress notes, and compliance with IEP goals, maintaining all required records.
Participate in IEP meetings and interdisciplinary team discussions, providing input on progress, goals, and recommendations.
Ensure safety standards are followed during therapy sessions and across the school setting.
Promote student independence and participation in school, play, and self-care activities appropriate for preschool development.
The mission of Parsons Preschool is to create an educational and therapeutic learning environment that helps preschool children reach their full potential. We aim to provide a warm, caring, and stimulating early childhood setting that is both safe and nurturing. To achieve this mission, we have carefully researched and adopted methodologies that lead to the use of developmentally appropriate and experiential curricula, aligning with the New York State Pre-K Learning Standards. Our curriculum is not organized into isolated skill areas; instead, it integrates cognition, communication, motor development, and social skills into a cohesive plan that encompasses all areas of learning within daily activities. We aspire for our students to develop a passion for lifelong learning in a least restrictive environment, ensuring they enter kindergarten equipped with the essential skills needed for success.
