Supporting Academic Success: Development of Resources to Optimize the Effectiveness of a Preschool Sensory Room

Abstract

Sensory processing challenges can significantly impact a student’s functional participation in educational activities, highlighting the importance of sensory rooms as therapeutic environments where sensory input can be modulated to support individual needs. This doctoral capstone project aimed to enhance the effectiveness of Pleasant View Elementary’s (PVE) preschool sensory room by providing education and resources to help educators adapt sensory input to students’ individual needs. To achieve this goal, the doctoral capstone student developed and implemented sensory resources, modified the sensory room layout and equipment, and provided staff education on sensory topics. Project efficacy was evaluated through pre- and post-surveys completed by preschool educators at PVE. Despite a limited survey response rate, results indicated that educators’ knowledge and confidence in supporting student’ sensory needs were increased after the sensory informational session. Additionally, educator responses and feedback indicated an overall increase in the perceived effectiveness of the sensory room in meeting students’ emotional and sensory regulation after the implementation of the doctoral capstone project. The outcomes of this project support the value of structured sensory environments and staff training in effectively supporting students with sensory processing challenges.