Date of Award
5-2025
Document Type
Oral Presentation/Poster
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Megan Johnke, OTD, OTR/L
Keywords
YMCA, occupational therapy, kindergarten readiness skills, childcare, preschool
Subject Categories
Occupational Therapy
Abstract
This capstone project aimed to enhance kindergarten readiness skills in preschool-aged children through the implementation of a school-based occupational therapy program at a YMCA child care center. The primary objective was to support children's developmental progress across multiple domains critical for school success. Over a 14-week period, developmentally appropriate, play-based activities were integrated into the classroom routine, specifically targeting fine motor skills, emotional regulation, sensory processing, and executive functioning—key areas linked to kindergarten readiness. Standardized assessments, including the Denver II Developmental Screening Tool and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), were utilized to monitor each child’s growth and identify areas of need. In addition to direct intervention with the children, caregivers and early childhood educators received weekly educational handouts addressing each focus area, promoting consistency and carryover across environments. The program not only demonstrated measurable improvements in children’s readiness for kindergarten, but also fostered stronger partnerships among families, educators, and the occupational therapy student. These findings underscore the critical role of occupational therapy in early childhood education and advocate for the integration of OT-informed strategies to support foundational skills necessary for a successful transition to formal schooling.
Recommended Citation
Eastman, Zoey, "Preparing Young Learners: Using Occupational Therapy to Promote Kindergarten Readiness at the YMCA." (2025). Occupational Therapy Capstone Presentations. 144.
https://red.library.usd.edu/ot-capstone/144