Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
4-23-2025
Abstract
Date: 04/23/2025
Student Name: Saba Masih
Capstone Project Title: An Open-Source Sensory Regulation Toolkit for School-Based Occupational Therapists: Supporting Ethnic Minority Families of Children with Sensory Processing Needs
Capstone Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jessica Alden, OTD, OTR/L
Abstract:
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to promote the ability of occupational therapists to support parents of children with sensory processing difficulties from minority backgrounds by developing a toolkit to optimize culturally sensitive parental coaching strategies that empower ethnic minority parents with the necessary knowledge and skills to support their child.
Background and Significance: Ethnic minority families often face difficulties in managing their children's behaviors because they have limited access to culturally sensitive care and specialized services. Without access to appropriate resources, these families struggle to find effective ways to help their children. This gap in support also means they have fewer resources to address challenges such as sensory processing issues.
Statement of the problem: This project aims to develop a culturally sensitive toolkit that occupational therapists can use with ethnic minority parents and to integrate principles of parent coaching into this toolkit so that occupational therapists can use it during parent workshops.
Methods: This product was created in response to a needs assessment carried out in MCPS with 10 occupational therapists who support diverse families. It was developed using current research, reviewed by content experts, and piloted with OTs and the families they serve.
Results: An online, open-source toolkit was created for OTs in MCPS to reduce barriers and enhance access to culturally responsive resources for ethnic minority parents. During the initial use of the toolkit, both OTs and parents found it user-friendly and helpful.
Conclusion: This free online, sensory-based toolkit offers OT-related content and additional resources for ethnic minority parents, providing culturally sensitive materials designed to reduce barriers, increase knowledge, and strengthen their ability to support and engage with their child.
Recommended Citation
Masih, Saba and Alden, Jessica, "An Open-Source Sensory Regulation Toolkit for School-Based Occupational Therapists: Supporting Ethnic Minority Families of Children with Sensory Processing Needs" (2025). Howard University, Department of Occupational Therapy Capstone and Faculty Research. 9.
https://dh.howard.edu/huotresearch/9
