Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Aaron Bonsall, PhD, OTR/L

Abstract

The aim of the project, Board Games for Kids was to provide an opportunity for underprivileged children to reduce stress and improve essential life skills through the occupation of play. Despite the lack of scholarly research, board games are widely considered to assist in the development of executive function skills necessary for future life skills. This program served as a pilot test and proof of concept. Clinical observation determined improvements in the development of appropriate play skills, and executive functioning skills such as planning, organizing, and sequencing. Staff observations noted improved peer to peer interactions, mood, and behaviors and abilities during general play. A manualized intervention was completed detailing project design and modules used. Board Games for Kids is a replicable, sustainable program for similar populations.

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