Apr 11 / Guest blogger and occupational therapist: Marina Scott, MS, OTR/L

Navigating Sensory Processing and Attention: An OT Practitioner's Guide


Welcome to guest blogger and Occupational Therapist:
Marina Scott, MS, OTR/L






Are you puzzled by a child who struggles to focus or seems overwhelmed by everyday sensations? You're not alone.

As OT practitioners, we are often asked many questions about sensory processing and attention. We also receive referrals for both concerns. As expectations for children continue to grow at a fast pace, attention and sensory processing remain at the forefront. As OT practitioners, how do we support students struggling with sensory processing, attention, or both? How do we determine whether the challenge is sensory-related or attention-related, as they can often present similarly in children? With so many questions surrounding this topic, it can be easy to get lost in the vast amount of information available.

As OT practitioners, it is essential to follow the guidance the American Occupational Therapy Association provides, along with our specific knowledge and experience in this area. We are well-equipped to support children, teachers, and caregivers in navigating attention and sensory processing challenges.
One of the key aspects of our role is identifying the root cause of a child's difficulties. Sensory processing challenges may manifest as difficulty regulating responses to stimuli, seeking or avoiding sensory input, or struggling with transitions. Attention-related difficulties, on the other hand, may be linked to executive functioning skills, impulsivity, or the ability to sustain focus on tasks. Understanding the differences between the two allows us to implement the most effective interventions.
Collaboration with teachers and caregivers is crucial in providing strategies that integrate seamlessly into a child’s daily routine. Whether it’s sensory breaks, environmental modifications, movement-based activities, or executive functioning strategies, our interventions must be practical and adaptable. By taking a holistic approach, we can empower children to reach their full potential in academic and social settings.


Instructor bioS
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Marina Scott, MS, OTR/L,
Aspire OT Instructor

Course: Executive Function in Pediatric and School-based Practice: Where Do OT Practitioners Fit In?

Occupational Therapy Executive Function and Teens

Nurturing Little Minds: OT Executive Function in Young Children

Tuning in: Enhancing Attention Through Sensory Strategies

Marina Scott MS, OTR/L is an accomplished pediatric occupational therapist with over 21 years of experience. She is a clinician, writer, and public speaker.  She has extensive experience in pediatrics, spanning from early intervention through college. She has spent her professional career in schools, early intervention, private clinics, and teletherapy.  
Her hobbies include knitting, reading, and spending time with family and friends


DISCLOSURES

Financial: Marina is compensated as an Aspire OT instructor. 
Non Financial:  Marina does not have any non-financial disclosures.

Attention & Sensory Strategies

If you want to learn more about how you can use sensory strategies to address attention, attend Marina's newest webinar.

Tuning in: Enhancing Attention Through Sensory Strategies
debuts Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 8 pm Eastern
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