Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
4-2025
Faculty Mentor
Amanda Giles
Abstract
Sensory Integration is such an important concept as sensory processing underlies all independent functioning (Miller et al., 2017), and it is particularly important for pediatric occupational therapists as sensory processing differences are especially common in pediatric populations (Ahn et al., 2004; Leekam et al., 2007).
The purpose of this capstone project is to facilitate occupational therapy clinician competence and confidence in implementing sensory strategies and techniques within an outpatient pediatric clinic that provides in-clinic and community-based services. Project goals include the creation of educational materials in order to improve confidence and to facilitate creativity when incorporating sensory strategies into treatment sessions.
After creation and implementation of additional sensory resources, data was collected using a mixed-methods approach via anonymous REDCap survey to evaluate satisfaction with the created educational materials and their application within practice. Participants include clinic-based and community-based OT clinicians at an outpatient pediatric clinic on a volunteer basis (n=10). Two teachers also provided additional feedback regarding private school and preschool-focused resources (n=2).
Data collection yielded 9 returned surveys (60% response rate) with respondents reporting an average of 3.4 years of clinical experience. Key findings include 100% of respondents strongly agree to the following statements: “These resources will be beneficial when providing support to junior OTs”, “These resources are effective when providing education to caregivers and teachers”, “These resources are helpful when planning treatment activities”, and “These resources are of high quality (clear, organized, and written in appropriate terminology)”. 90% of respondents strongly agree and 10% of respondents agree to the following statement: “I am more confident in my chosen treatment activities”. A few respondents provided additional qualitative feedback, which have also been analyzed and incorporated into the final results. In conclusion, data collection has determined the effectiveness of the created resources and the encouragement of sustainability within the clinic.
Recommended Citation
Evatt, Sophia, "Sensory Processing and Intervention in the Pediatric Setting: Resources for Implementing Sensory Strategies in the Pediatric Outpatient Clinic, Community, and Among Different Diagnoses" (2025). Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium. 79.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-elotd/79