Occupational Therapy’s Role in Addressing Sensory Deficits in Children with Behavioral Health Challenges Through Teacher Training

Title

Occupational Therapy’s Role in Addressing Sensory Deficits in Children with Behavioral Health Challenges Through Teacher Training

Files

Description

Sensory processing difficulties have been well-documented in children who have behavioral health challenges. Addressing a child’s sensory processing needs may decrease behaviors that disrupt occupational participation and thus leading to improved learning and better information retention. A review of current literature revealed that teachers who work with children with behavioral health challenges are not required to receive education in addressing sensory deficits in the classroom.

This study performed a needs assessment, exploring current teacher understanding of sensory processing and what role occupational therapy could play in providing training for teachers. The project also generated pertinent online teacher training modules so that teachers may be supported despite the current Covid-19 pandemic in the United States.

Publication Date

Summer 8-19-2020

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

City

San Marcos, CA

Medical Subject Headings

Teacher Training, Occupational Therapy, Problem Behavior, Sensation Disorders, Students, Surveys and Questionnnaires, Interviews

Related Content

Teacher Training in Sensory Processing: Helping Teachers Help Students. [Website]. (2020). https://www.sensoryprocessing4schools.com

Comments

Poster presented at the Summer 2020 Campus Research Day on the San Marcos, CA, campus of the University of St. Augustine for Heath Sciences on August 19, 2020.

References

  1. Bodison, S. C., & Parham, L. D. (2018). Specific sensory techniques and sensory environmental modifications for children and youth with sensory integration difficulties: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72(1), 1–11.
  2. Champagne T., Koomar J., & Olson L. (2010). Sensory processing evaluation and intervention in mental health. OT Practice, 15(5), CE-1.
  3. Commission on Teacher Credentialing. (2019). Become a special education school teacher in California. Retrieved from https://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/teach-special-ed
  4. Velting, O., Setzer, N., & Albano, A.M. (2004). Update on and advances in assessment and cognitive–behavioral treatment of anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, (1), 42.

Occupational Therapy’s Role in Addressing Sensory Deficits in Children with Behavioral Health Challenges Through Teacher Training
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