PTS Back-to-School Get to Know Therapy Networking Ideas

by Emily Kocher, MS, CCC-SLP; Director of Clinical Services

The start of school can always be a little unnerving. New school, new kids, new staff – and often as a school-based therapist, you find yourself the new face in the halls.

To ease the transition or even to share with those who already may know you a little, consider one of these fun networking tips:

A FEW HIGHLIGHTS ABOUT THERAPY

Attach a tag to a highlighter with the saying A few “highlights” about your (insert therapist discipline)”- List some quick information about yourself and how to contact you.

Pass out in teacher mailboxes.

CHEW ON THIS – INFO BASKET

Place a basket filled with gum and chewy candy in the office or faculty room with a label that says “Chew On This.”

Place a quick fact sheet about yourself so that everyone can learn about you!

To ease the kids into their new year you could also try:

KINDNESS SHOUTOUTS

Review expectations for therapy sessions paired with a read aloud- Read “Do Unto Ohers” by Laurie Keller and give the students kindness shoutouts (slips of paper with a note showcasing their kind acts) all year.  

YOU MAKE THE RULES

Read “That Rule Doesn’t Apply to Me” by Julia Cook and have the kids brainstorm rules/ expectations for therapy sessions.

BEACHBALL ICE BREAKER

Write several different questions on a beach ball and pass the ball around having the students answer questions and fun facts about themselves.

SELF SHOW & TELL

Have the kids bring in 5 items to “describe yourself” in a paper bag and have the students guess what they symbolize to learn about the student! They can also share their favorites with the group.