This issue of "Special Parent/Special Child" describes the role of occupational and physical therapy in maximizing the potential of special needs children. Physical and occupational therapy are defined and the training and functions of therapists in each area are outlined. Also discussed are the goals of therapy programs in developing gross and fine motor skills, assessment methods, types of therapeutic exercises, the functions of the school-based physical or occupational therapist, and the parents' role as co-therapists. The issue concludes with a column addressing the problem of psychological depression experienced by parents of special needs children. (JDD)