OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

This doctoral capstone was completed in partnership with Wildflower Learning Center in Nolensville, Tennessee, a non-traditional educational program offering group academic classes within an inclusive and supportive learning environment for children with disabilities, neurodiverse learners, and neurotypical peers in grades 3–8. Wildflower Learning Center utilizes an interdisciplinary model that supports academic, social, language, and functional skill development through group-based instruction. The primary goal of this project was to develop an inclusive, evidence-based curriculum aimed at enhancing students’ interoceptive awareness through structured lesson plans, engaging activities, and supportive educational resources. A comprehensive 14-week brain class curriculum was created in both digital and print formats, addressing concepts related to the brain, nervous system, and sensory processing to support functional skill development. Additional project goals included evaluating and providing recommendations for Wildflower’s enrollment process, supporting future recruitment efforts, enhancing parent engagement, and developing sensory-friendly classroom materials. Outcomes included an evaluation recommendations list, educational social media content, a classroom sensory tools resource, and parent communication materials such as regular email updates and virtual engagement opportunities for various curriculum content. All resources and materials were shown to staff members and designed to support both current and future use.

Publication Date

Spring 4-21-2026

Faculty Mentor

Candace Thrash, OTD, MSOT, OTR/L, BCP

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

College

Health Sciences & Nursing, Gordon E. Inman College of

Document Type

Poster

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

Inclusive Education; Neurodiverse Learners; Curriculum Development; Evidence-Based Practice; Educational Resources; Sensory Learning; Wildflower Learning Center; Classroom Materials; Parent Engagement; Occupational Therapy

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