The Effect of an Alternate Seating System on the Educational Participation of a Child with Developmental Disabilities: A Case Study

Presenter Information

Jeryl D. Benson, Duquesne University; Richard Simpson, Duquesne University; Hannah Clark, Duquesne University; Phillip Stark, University of Pittsburgh; Julie Voelker, Watson Institute; Anne Wesley, Watson Institute

Abstract

Background: Educational teams are charged with creating a learning environment that supports educational and social participation of the children. However, some children require a specialized environment to maximize their academic performance. Specifically, children with developmental disorders often require the use of therapeutic strategies embedded in the classroom to increase engagement. Purpose: The purpose of this case study was to examine the use of a custom designed alternate seating device that included sensory features for a child with extreme sensory seeking behaviors. Case Description: Z. is an 8-year-old male with a diagnosis of 15q duplication. Z.’s classroom behaviors interfering with educational participation include: increased sensory seeking via rocking, tactile exploration, and auditory sensitivities. Method/Intervention: To meet the needs of this child the team explored combining the intervention of sensory regulation via vestibular and somatosensory input and the use of alternate seating in the classroom. Results: Following fabrication and use of a custom alternate seating device, improvement was noted with emotional regulation, increased time spent attending to classroom instruction, and a decrease in classroom noise level. Alternate Seating and Educational Participation 3 Discussion and Conclusion: The custom alternate seating device facilitated improved educational participation for Z. and their classmates. Z. was able to receive the needed sensory stimulation without interruptions to learning and the overall classroom environment took on a more positive atmosphere for Z., their classmates, and the staff. Implications: The benefits gained by use of this sensory based custom alternate seating device could easily translate to other special needs schools and institutions attended by persons needing sensory regulation and a calm environment.

School

Nasuti College of Osteopathic Medicine

Submission Type

Paper

Repository Citation

Benson, J. D., Simpson, R., Clark, H., Stark, P., Voelker, J., & Wesley, A. (2026). The Effect of an Alternate Seating System on the Educational Participation of a Child with Developmental Disabilities: A Case Study. Retrieved from https://dsc.duq.edu/duqcom-2026/1