Therapy Balls in the Classroom

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy published a single subject design research study on the effectiveness of using therapy ball chairs on classroom participation in children with autism. Six boys with autism spectrum disorder were assessed using video recordings during circle time when they were sitting on the therapy balls. The results indicated that each child reacted differently. One child with extreme sensory seeking behaviors benefited whereas children with poor postural stability were less engaged. The researchers concluded that clinical reasoning is important when making decisions for strategies to use it the classroom.

Reference: Nancy Bagatell-PhD, OTR/L, Gina Mirigliani-OTD, OTR/L, ATP, Chrissa Patterson-MPT, Yadira Reyes-MOTS, Lisa Test-OTD, OTR/L Effectiveness of Therapy Ball Chairs on Classroom Participation in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
AJOT November/December 2010 Volume 64 / Number 6