Trauma-Informed Sensory Support for Foster Children

This course is based on a doctoral capstone project focused on developing trauma-informed sensory supports for children in the foster care system. Grounded in occupational therapy principles and the Sensory Integration frame of reference, the course explores how early trauma impacts the nervous system, sensory processing, and a child’s ability to regulate emotions, behavior, and participation in daily life.

The capstone project was completed in collaboration with clinicians and caregivers at the Blank Children’s STAR Center and centered on program development and evaluation. A comprehensive needs assessment identified key challenges among foster children, including sensory-seeking behaviors, difficulty with interoception, emotional dysregulation, and struggles with transitions. To address these gaps, the project developed practical, evidence-based resources such as caregiver handouts, sensory diet strategies, movement pathways, and environmental adaptations.

Methods included a literature review examining the relationship between trauma, sensory processing, and caregiver education, as well as the development of educational materials and feedback tools (e.g., questionnaires) to evaluate intervention effectiveness. Key findings emphasize that many behaviors commonly labeled as “misbehavior” are actually adaptive sensory responses to trauma. Additionally, caregiver education significantly improves understanding, co-regulation, and the child’s ability to achieve emotional and sensory balance.

This course is ideal for occupational therapy students, healthcare professionals, educators, foster parents, and caregivers who work with or support children impacted by trauma. It provides both foundational knowledge and practical tools that can be immediately applied in clinical, educational, and home settings to promote regulation, resilience, and participation in meaningful activities.