We recently shared how therapy is woven into everyday life at MacIntyre School, helping children and young people be part of the things that matter to them most.
Across MacIntyre School and our children's homes, our therapy team works alongside teachers, families and residential staff teams, getting to know each young person and finding practical ways to support them.
In the third part of our therapy mini-series, we're taking a closer look at Malakai's story.
When Malakai joined MacIntyre, his family and the people around him were keen to understand more about what helped him feel settled throughout the day.
Malakai spent time with the occupational therapy team, who got to know him and find out a little more about what helps him feel settled. They explored different sounds, movements, textures and surroundings with him, and began to work out what helped him feel more comfortable throughout his day.
From there, some simple things became part of Malakai's everyday routine. Calming music, movement, a rocking chair he likes to use, sensory tools and activities that help him feel more settled. The people around him have also made small changes to his day, including softer lighting and quieter routines at certain times.
The occupational therapy team, teachers, residential colleagues and Malakai's family have worked together to make things consistent, both at school and at home. Visual schedules, countdowns and familiar cues help Malakai know what is happening and what comes next, while the team continues to share what they notice and adapt things as they learn more about him.
Malakai is now able to spend longer learning, joining in and being around other people. He's becoming more independent and, when he needs some help or reassurance, is increasingly able to look to the people he knows and trusts. He's sleeping better, enjoying more of his day and spending more time doing things alongside the people around him.
