Date and Time: February 18, 2026 | 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm Eastern Time

Event Description:
Sensory processing differences can significantly influence regulation, participation, and learning for neurodivergent students. In response, many schools have implemented sensory rooms and tools to support student needs, often with guidance from occupational therapy professionals. Despite their growing presence, research on the effectiveness of sensory rooms and equipment remains limited, and their use and design vary widely across schools and regions. At the same time, occupational therapy professionals frequently observe positive outcomes in practice, creating a gap between research evidence and lived experience. This discussion-based session will provide an overview of the current literature on sensory rooms and equipment in school settings, followed by a collaborative conversation about how these spaces are understood and applied in practice. You will be invited to share your experiences and perspectives, highlighting the diversity in how sensory spaces are defined, developed, and utilized across different regions. So please come prepared to discuss!

Together, we will explore common challenges, innovative strategies, and opportunities for collaboration among occupational therapy professionals supporting school communities. The session aims to foster reflection on how sensory recommendations can be aligned with both emerging evidence and the unique needs of students, while working toward a shared understanding of best practices across Ontario.

The event will not be recorded.

By the end of this event you will:

• Reflect on your own therapeutic reasoning behind sensory-based recommendations.
• Analyze commonalities and discrepancies in current practice across school-based and other occupational therapy settings.
• Collaborate with Ontario occupational therapy professionals to identify areas for future research and best practice based on the observed research gaps related to sensory spaces and sensory-based equipment.

Presenters:
Anna Murray, OT Reg. (Ont.) is an occupational therapist at Grandview Kids, working within the School Years and School-Based Rehabilitation programs. She is passionate about delivering evidence-based care, with a strong interest in sensory processing and the clinical efficacy of the latest research in pediatric occupational therapy. Anna provides services in both English and French, supporting children and families with a holistic, research-informed approach tailored to individual needs. 

Aliya Satani, MScOT, OT Reg. (Ont.) is an occupational therapist that is passionate about helping people fully participate in their lives and develop skills to promote their well-being. Aliya currently works in the School Years and School Based Rehabilitation team at Grandview Kids. She currently works with students with various disabilities in the school setting, as well as their families. Aliya strives to build capacity with the education team and help students access the curriculum, build strong social supports and participate in meaningful activities at school. 

Christine Cambas, OT Reg. (Ont.) is an occupational therapist at Grandview Kids, supporting children through the School-Based Rehabilitation and School Years programs. She has experience working with children of all ages in schools, homes, treatment centres and community settings. Christine supports kids with a wide range of needs, using creativity and play to make therapy fun and engaging. She enjoys helping children build everyday skills that support their growth, confidence and independence. 

Evelyn Smart, OT Reg. (Ont.) is an occupational therapist at Grandview Kids School Years and School-Based Rehabilitation Program. Evelyn has experience working with children of a variety of ages and abilities in school, clinic and home settings. Evelyn works with children and families to promote optimal participation in everyday activities, such as those related to school, play, and self-care tasks. Evelyn is passionate about working with children and strives to make a difference in her clients and their families.

Madison Billings, MScOT, OT Reg. (Ont.) is an occupational therapist at Grandview Kids who works in the School Years and School-Based Rehabilitation Programs, servicing pediatric clients. Madison services children in a variety of settings including school, clinic and in-home. She enjoys working with children of all ages and abilities. She strives to support a diverse range of pediatric clients with their functional goals by drawing on their individualized strengths and using a client-centered approach.

Fees: (All fees are plus HST)

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