Date of Award

Spring 5-10-2025

Document Type

Oral Presentation/Poster

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Health Science

Faculty Mentor

Shana Cerny

Keywords

trauma-informed care, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), social-emotional development, Trust-Based Relational Intervention®, Nurture Group©, occupational therapy, preschool, Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) Model

Subject Categories

Early Childhood Education | Mental and Social Health | Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Children exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) face challenges that impact their developmental trajectory, family dynamics, and occupational engagement (CDC, 2021a). Rays of Resilience is a trauma-informed occupational therapy capstone project designed to enhance social-emotional skills in preschoolers at a rural Head Start program guided by the TBRI® framework and the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model. Using Nurture Group© small group intervention, collaboration with staff, and engagement with caregivers, this project targeted social-emotional development and relationship building in children with a higher risk of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Fifteen students participated in weekly lessons focused on self-regulation, identifying emotions, and communicating wants and needs. Outcomes were measured through the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, a staff focus group, and caregiver surveys. Results revealed a significant increase in prosocial behavior, reduced hyperactivity/inattention, and observed growth in empathy, confidence, and emotional resilience. Staff also reported greater classroom cohesion and success in accommodating diverse learning needs. This project highlights the important role of occupational therapy and trauma-informed practices in fostering healthy developmental outcomes and strengthening support systems in vulnerable populations through program development, leadership, and advocacy efforts.

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