OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

This doctoral capstone project was conducted in collaboration with Flip for Function, an adaptive gymnastics program that incorporates occupational therapy principles to serve children with and without disabilities. The primary aim of this project was to facilitate the expansion of adaptive movement programming into school-based settings through the development of structured resources, evaluation tools, and educational materials. A comprehensive literature review was completed to examine the relationship between physical activity, executive functioning, self-regulation, and school-related outcomes in children with disabilities. Guided by these findings, key deliverables were developed, including a school-based implementation guide, outreach materials for school personnel, a teacher-reported outcome measure, and an executive functioning activity guide designed to support targeted intervention through movement. Collectively, these resources aim to promote program consistency, support collaboration between schools and community-based services, and provide practical strategies for integrating movement into educational environments. This project contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting movement-based interventions and highlights the role of occupational therapy in promoting participation, engagement, and functional outcomes for children with disabilities in school settings.

Publication Date

Spring 4-2026

Faculty Mentor

Sandy Stevens, PhD, OTR/L

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

adaptive movement, occupational therapy, executive functioning, school-based intervention, participation, developmental disabilities

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