A Methodist University student-created project designed to empower parents of children with sensory processing challenges is getting a big boost – all thanks to a grant.
A Methodist University student-created project designed to empower parents of children with sensory processing challenges is getting a big boost – all thanks to a grant.
T
he Women’s Giving Circle of Cumberland County recently presented MU’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program with a $4,045 check to launch the MU Speaking Senses project.
The initiative was originally created by MU OTD students in the spring of 2021, providing caregivers, therapists, and children the skills and strategies to increase participation in daily-living activities. Due to the pandemic, the MU students were forced to hold the pilot projects virtually.
But now, the grant will allow the OTD program to conduct a series of live, in-person classes for parents who have children with sensory-processing challenges. The classes will be designed towards improving treatment outcomes for children with either autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or children with undiagnosed sensory challenges.
Starting in the spring of 2023 at the McLean Health Sciences Building, the Speaking Senses project will allow the OTD program to provide the community with free, six-week educational classes on how to incorporate carryover treatment in the home to improve their child’s daily performance at home and at school.
Recent OTD graduate Samantha Mitchell ’21, a co-inventor of the Speaking Senses project, hopes this grant is a springboard to more opportunities down the line.
“Methodist University’s inaugural OTD cohort has focused on collaborating with community members to provide education and resources to enhance engagement in meaningful daily activities,” Mitchell said. “This grant is a means for the following OTD cohorts to continue building those strong community networks to support families and children with special needs.”
The Speaking Senses project is incorporated into MU’s OTD curriculum, allowing the upcoming OTD classes to continue the project.
“This was such an excellent project and has proven to be an excellent and sustainable practice model to support families and children with special needs within our community,” said Dr. Sheri Michel, assistant professor of Occupational Therapy.
You can learn more about Methodist University’s OTD program by visiting here.