Date of Award

January 2017

Degree Type

Open Access Thesis

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Camille Skubik-Peplaski

Department Affiliation

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Second Advisor

Shirley P. O'Brien

Department Affiliation

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Third Advisor

Anne Fleischer

Department Affiliation

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Abstract

The aim of this study was to discover how a movement program, utilizing principles of dance and sensory integration, effects motor and sensory outcomes for children with sensorimotor impairments. Participants' motor performance was assessed using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency prior to and following participation in the movement program. Additionally, sensory function was assessed using the Child Sensory Profile prior to participation, and sensory modulation was tracked throughout the program. This short-term, intensive program followed a protocol based on sensory integration principles and theories of motor learning. The analysis demonstrated the change in motor performance to be statistically significant, suggesting that the program was successful in improving praxis skills for the participants. These findings inform practice by supporting the use of an integrated movement program with children who have sensorimotor impairments. Although these preliminary findings show positive results, further research is needed.

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