Date of Award

4-2025

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Jenna Castle, M.Ed.

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

This doctoral capstone project focused on improving sensory-informed care at Grand Rapids Community College Early Childhood Learning Laboratory (GRCC ECLL), which serves children from six weeks to six years of age. Occupational therapy’s (OT) role in supporting self-regulation and participation through sensory integration was central to the project. A gap was identified in staff understanding of sensory processing, the absence of formal training, and inconsistent access to materials supporting regulation. To address this, five objectives were accomplished: surveying staff, developing and trialing a shared sensory toolkit, delivering professional development on sensory systems, leading an interactive trauma and sensory module for occupational therapy assistant (OTA) students, and creating a repository of resources. Results showed increased staff confidence and understanding, improved regulation in children, and successful implementation of materials across seven classrooms. Children began independently using tools to regulate, while staff applied strategies with greater consistency. The project produced sustainable educational and material resources and laid the foundation for continued collaboration and sensory informed practices at the site. This work contributes to the field of occupational therapy by demonstrating the profession’s value in capacity-building, caregiver education, and the creation of inclusive, supportive environments in early childhood education.

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