Document Type
Capstone
Abstract
This paper explores the emerging practice area of nature-based occupational therapy (OT) and its potential impact on the mental health and attentional outcomes of children and adolescents with developmental disabilities. Drawing from the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) and existing literature, it highlights the benefits of nature-based practice approaches on the overall well-being of children and adolescents. The project aims to disseminate current evidence regarding nature-based practice approaches to various professionals, including OT practitioners, physical therapists, and speech-language pathologists, particularly those who work in the nature-based adjacent setting of Hippotherapy. The process included conducting research through a thorough literature review, creating a presentation that outlined the mental health and attentional benefits of nature-based OT and establishing a pre- and post-survey intended to measure the efficacy of the presentation. Upon thorough analysis of the data gathered from both the pre- and post-surveys, participants demonstrated an increased understanding of nature-based OT for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, underscoring the presentation's effectiveness. Ultimately, the goal of this project is to contribute to advancing the understanding and implementation of nature-based interventions in the field of OT, offering new and innovative approaches for enhancing the well-being of children and adolescents with developmental disabilities.
Publication Date
4-2024
Recommended Citation
Hankins, Caitlin, "Bringing Occupational Therapy Outdoors: The Impact of Nature-Based Interventions on Mental Health and Attention in Children with Developmental Disabilities" (2024). MOT Student Capstones. 139.
https://riches.cabarruscollege.edu/mot-student-capstones/139
