5yo has first OT appt tomorrow, what to expect?

[applecider]

I had DS evaluated by an OT recently (and paid out of pocket!!!) and so they let me know that he has some issues and would I want a weekly appt, as they had an opening.  I said yes, however I am paying out of pocket so I'm not sure how long I can do this.  I was hoping to sit in on the appt and get some ideas of things to do at home but I"ll have my 2yo with me so not sure if I'll be able to do that.  Don't have anyone to watch him at that time.  I guess I"m just wondering if all this is worth it?  None of his issues are major, just more or less really annoying sometimes.  Do you think a couple of appts are even worth it if I'm not going to continue long term?

[Emmeline II]

I would be honest about that. One thing my OT evaluator asked is what I intended to do with the report and she offered to write a section for his next teacher on specific things to help ds at school.

Ds saw his CBT every week from September through December; by then he progressed to a point where we switched to every other week. We had a standing appointment after school, but I know we may have to give up that particular time slot now that ds has fewer appointments.

[melissa17s]

I would talk to the OT or their office admin to let them know you are paying out of pocket, and ask if they can offer reduced rates or refer you to free services, such as through your local school district.  If you have insurance, have you checked to see, if they will cover it?  

My son does OT, and it is a slow and ambiguous process to me.  He is there to develop his hand muscles/handwriting and he does many activities that seem unrelated, but over all helps his strength.  He is doing the handwriting with out tears program.  We have seen improvement, so for him it is worthwhile, but it is also taking time and he had his review/evaluation last night to assess whether he needs more.  The OT feels he still needs services as long as we are willing to come in.  

[applecider]

No, his insurance does not cover it and they don't offer reduced rates.  We make too much probably for any free services.  We can afford it now, but I just don't want it to be money thrown away if it is not really helping.  Maybe I'll just do that.  Have a few appts and have the OT make a list of things I can do with him at home.

[Logan's Mom]

I find that OT does help but it is a long process (maybe for others it may not be).  I'd be fully commited the process before spending $ for just a few sessions.

Just my 2 cents.