Supporting Learning, Attention, and Organisation at School – OT and Speech Pathology Strategies

Learning requires more than academic ability. Attention, organisation, and communication skills are essential for children to engage meaningfully in the classroom. Occupational therapists and speech pathologists provide strategies to support these skills across all school stages.

Preschool

Young children are learning how to attend, listen, and participate in group activities.

• Use short, engaging tasks paired with movement breaks

• Build listening skills through songs, stories, and games

• Encourage language development through pretend play

• Support transitions with visual supports and predictable routines

Primary School

Primary school students are expected to manage classroom tasks more independently.

• Use visual checklists for routines and homework

• Support comprehension of instructions using visual aids

• Improve posture and desk organisation for learning

• Build sequencing and storytelling skills to support written work

High School

High school students must juggle multiple subjects, deadlines, and expectations.

• Teach planning skills using calendars and digital tools

• Support expressive language for written assessments and exams

• Address attention challenges with structured study routines

• Encourage self-monitoring and reflection skills

These strategies help students feel more organised, confident, and capable at school.