Integrating Sensory Processing and Self- Regulation Strategies in Daily Teaching Practices

Authors

Alana D. Foster, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Angela L. Blackwell, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

This capstone project addressed the critical need for early childhood educators to improve their understanding and application of sensory processing and self-regulation strategies within the classroom setting. The project was implemented at an early learning center and aimed to enhance educators’ ability to support student participation and occupational performance through a structured coaching framework. Guided by Dunn’s Sensory Processing Framework and the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) model, the intervention included five individualized coaching sessions and the development of two key capstone products: a sensory processing coaching framework and a sensory processing toolkit and activity binder. The coaching framework incorporated observational tools, quick reference guides, and reflection surveys, while the toolkit provided practical sensory materials and classroom-specific activities organized by sensory category. Outcomes from this project suggest that when educators receive targeted support and hands-on resources, they are more equipped and confident in embedding sensory strategies into their daily routines. Despite challenges related to time constraints, varying levels of teacher engagement, and competing curricular demands, the project demonstrated the value of occupational therapy collaboration in early education. This capstone highlights important implications for OT practice and future research, including the need to evaluate the effectiveness of coaching models and toolkits, address implementation barriers, and further explore interdisciplinary approaches to enhancing sensory-supportive learning environments.

Publication Date

Spring 4-24-2025

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Sensory processing, Self-regulation, Early childhood, coaching, Occupational therapy

Medical Subject Headings

Sensory processing, Self-regulation, Early childhood, coaching, Occupational therapy

Disciplines

Early Childhood Education | Education | Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the in-person OTD Capstone Symposium held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on April 24, 2025.

Recommended Citation

Foster, A. D., & Blackwell, A. L. (2025, April 24). Integrating Sensory Processing and Self- Regulation Strategies in Daily Teaching Practices. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2025/31

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.