Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Julie Grabanski
Abstract
Purpose: This scholarly project aims to develop and implement a toolkit designed to support teachers and paraprofessionals in managing the sensory, behavioral, and educational needs of students with Emotional Behavioral Disorders (EBD) and those who have experienced childhood trauma in general education classrooms. By integrating occupational therapy techniques and sensory-based interventions into classroom settings, this project seeks to enhance students' ability to self-regulate, ultimately improving academic engagement and social participation.
Methods: A multi-phase approach guided by the Ecology of Human Performance Model (EHP), beginning with a comprehensive literature review to identify best practices in sensory-based interventions for students with EBD and childhood trauma. A needs assessment was conducted among educators to determine existing challenges and gaps in available resources. Observations and informal discussions with teachers, occupational therapists, and school staff further informed the development of the toolkit. The final product, the Calm Classroom Toolkit, was implemented in a Midwest elementary school and included a structured educational booklet and sensory toolkits for classroom use.
Results: A toolkit comprised of an educational booklet and activity boxes was created titled Calm Classroom Toolkit to provide educators with tools to decrease disruptive behavior within the general education classrooms for children with EBD and childhood trauma. The booklet included information diagnoses, task modifications, environmental modifications, and behavior strategies. The activity boxes included calming corner supplies for the classroom.
Conclusions: The results highlight the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions in fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for students with EBD and childhood trauma. By equipping educators with practical tools and strategies, the Calm Classroom Toolkit serves as a valuable resource in addressing the unique needs of these students. Future research should focus on expanding implementation across diverse educational settings and assessing the long-term benefits of sensory-based interventions in improving academic and social outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Boline, Hailey, "ENHANCING ENGAGEMENT: INTEGRATING SENSORY-BASED STRATEGIES FOR STUDENTS WITH EMOTIONAL BEHAVIOR DISORDERS IN GENEREAL EDUCATION CLASSROOMS" (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstones. 691.
https://commons.und.edu/ot-grad/691