Graduation Year
2026
Document Type
Capstone Project
Research Type
Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Program Chair
Kitsum Li, OTD, OTR/L, CSRS
Faculty Mentor
Julia Wilbarger PhD, OTR/L
Content Expert
Julia Wilbarger PhD, OTR/L
Site Mentor
Troy Porter
Abstract
Children with sensory processing challenges may experience barriers to participation in everyday activities. While summer camps offer opportunities for social development, play, and growth, staff may have limited training and resources to support children with different sensory needs. This can create challenges to participation and inclusion within traditional summer camp environments. The purpose of this capstone project was to develop, implement, and evaluate a staff training program aimed at increasing staff understanding of sensory processing and providing practical strategies to support campers with sensory processing challenges.
A project-level needs assessment was conducted through informal staff conversations, observations of daily camp routines, and a pre-training survey. Findings indicated a need for increased staff understanding of sensory processing and practical strategies to support children experiencing behavioral challenges. Based on the identified needs and limitations in staff availability, a brief, self-paced online training was developed and implemented during the summer camp session. The training included a pre-recorded video presentation, scenario-based knowledge check, program evaluation survey, and supporting educational resources. Three camp staff members completed the training and evaluation.
All participants answered the six knowledge check questions correctly and reported that the training was helpful, easy to understand, and relevant to their role. Findings highlighted the importance of considering timing, staff availability, and accessibility when implementing educational programs in community settings. This project demonstrates the potential role of occupational therapy in providing staff education and practical resources to support regulation, participation, and inclusion of children with sensory processing differences in traditional summer camp environments.