Development of Resources to Improve Sensory Regulation in the Classroom

Abstract

The purpose of this doctoral capstone project was to develop and provide sensory based resources to teachers, occupational therapists, and families throughout a large Florida school district to improve student regulation. Through the needs assessment, it was discovered that the school system had a goal to decrease maladaptive behavior and suspensions. To support this goal, four resources were created; a teacher’s handbook to sensory processing and regulation, a sensory pathway that students can utilize for regulation, newsletters for families on sensory processing and activities to support development, and a list of equipment to purchase to support the creation of a sensory library. Trainings were provided to teachers on how to utilize the handbook created.