Parents’ Perceptions of Occupational Therapy Provided in Group-Based Sensory Motor Therapy

Abstract

Parental perceptions of occupational therapy intervention are important in understanding the benefit of therapy programs for the child and family. Teacher’s involvement may further help in the classroom, gym class, and playground. The purpose of this article is to describe a novel approach to a group-based sensory motor therapy program that entailed using a one-way mirror and parental feedback regarding their participation and that of their children. A retrospective review of a preliminary program evaluation of a group-based sensory motor porgram was conducted. Parents were asked to rate components of the program on a five-point ordinal scale and qualitatively list the perceived benefits of the group for their child and themselves. Forty-three parents completed the questionnaire. The respondents mean satisfaction (range = 4.4–4.9) was excellent. The parents’ qualitative feedback was organized into five categories for the perceived benefits of the group both for their child and for themselves. Parental invovlement in group-based sensory motor therapy that allows them to observe together behind a one-way mirror is beneficial for them and their children. A similar model conducted in schools may benefit teachers and students.

• motor skills disorders
• group processes
• self-regulation
• occupational therapy
• school-aged population