Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Andrea Young

Abstract

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and restrictive or repetitive behaviors (Hirota & King, 2023). Children with autism demonstrate sensory challenges impacting their participation in activities of daily living and social engagement (Schaaf et al., 2014 & Travers et al., 2022). Occupational therapists often employ techniques and settings to enrich sensory experiences when working with children diagnosed with autism. Accessibility and awareness of occupational therapy services on the Navajo reservation are also restricted (Casimir, 2023). People on the Navajo reservation may experience cultural and language barriers with others, and limited resources due to its rural location.

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to establish a sensory room tailored for children with ASD residing on the Navajo reservation within a clinical setting. Additionally, educational resources were developed for parents and caregivers to enhance their comprehension of ASD and explore diverse strategies to address the sensory requirements of the child.

Method: An extensive literature review was conducted to obtain information to design a sensory room utilizing evidence-based strategies for health professionals and families to use for children with ASD. The author gathered evidence from various databases, publications, textbooks, and professional organizations. The Ecology of Human Performance (EHP) model (Dunn, 2017) and the Sensory Integration frame of reference (Cho, 2010) were used to develop this project.

Results: Ancillary to the sensory room is a guide for occupational therapists and other health professionals. The guide has information for creating and implementing a sensory room in a clinical setting. It also gives parents or caregivers education about ASD, sensory challenges, strategies to use, and resources to help engage children with ASD in meaningful occupations. The guide's outline includes an introduction, describes the models used, instructions for implementation, a documentation form, sensory room blueprint, equipment listing, and parent education.

Conclusion: This product was developed to give occupational therapists and other health professionals working on the Navajo reservation the resources to create a sensory room. It is anticipated that this product will provide information and materials to guide the creation of a sensory room for children with autism experiencing sensory challenges and will continue to grow to reach other populations.

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