Creating a Sensory-Inclusive School Environment for Children

Authors

• Kendall L. Keeton, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Cassandra Nelson, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
• Justine Faghihifar, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

This mixed-methods program development capstone project aimed to assess whether structured sensory supports improve academic engagement and student behavior in the school setting. A sensory pathway, calm corner, and sensory toolkit were designed, implemented, and evaluated within an elementary school. A digital manual was also created to facilitate staff education and long-term sustainability of the program. Findings from pre- and post-surveys and observation suggest potential improvements in academic engagement, student behavior, and staff knowledge following program implementation.

Publication Date

Spring 4-22-2026

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Children, Program development, Students, Sensory processing

Medical Subject Headings

Children, Program development, Students, Sensory processing

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 22, 2026.

Recommended Citation

Keeton, K. L., Nelson, C., & Faghihifar, J. (2026, April 22). Creating a Sensory-Inclusive School Environment for Children. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2026/6