Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 24, 2026
09:13
Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
17.0K
Occupational Therapy Interventions for Children and Youth With Challenges in Sensory Integration and Sensory
Gloria Frolek Clark1, Renee Watling2, L Diane Parham3
1Gloria Frolek Clark, PhD, OTR/L, BCP, SCSS, FAOTA, is Owner, Gloria Frolek Clark LLC, Adel, IA.
Summary
This case study shows occupational therapy for a child with autism spectrum disorder and sensory integration challenges in a school setting. It demonstrates how evidence-based practice can be applied in educational environments.
Area of Science:
- Occupational therapy
- Pediatric healthcare
- Educational psychology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and sensory integration (SI) challenges significantly impact a child's educational experience.
- Occupational therapy (OT) interventions are crucial for addressing these challenges in school settings.
- This article follows a two-part series, focusing on OT service delivery in schools after a clinic-based case report.
Observation:
- The case involves a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experiencing difficulties with sensory integration.
- The occupational therapist provided services within the child's school environment.
- This contrasts with the previous article's focus on clinic-based interventions.
Findings:
- Occupational therapy interventions in a school setting can effectively address sensory integration challenges in children with ASD.
- School-based OT promotes participation in academic and social activities.
- Evidence-based practice, informed by systematic reviews, guides effective OT service delivery.
Implications:
- School-based occupational therapy is vital for supporting students with ASD and sensory processing differences.
- Integrating OT services within schools enhances a child's ability to succeed in the educational setting.
- Findings support the application of evidence-based occupational therapy in diverse educational contexts.
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