Congratulations to Duke OTD student, Belden Long, on winning the AOTA Inventors Showcase (think Shark Tank!) with her company justb!
Across the United States, less than 25% of youth meet guidelines for recommended 60-minutes of daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (Katzmarzyk et al., 2018). Disparities in physical activity (PA) options for students with disabilities has long predated the pandemic. Children with disabilities experience comprehensive physical challenges and are 2x more likely to experience obesity. Yet, few PA opportunities exist that meet their learning needs. COVID-19 exacerbated the need for advancements in PA resources that are user-friendly, equity-minded, and adaptable for diverse learning styles.
justb is a multidisciplinary team of Olympic Athletes, therapists, neurodivergent learners, and adapted PE teachers designing, developing, and delivering inclusive online movement resources for children aged 5-19. The mission is to leverage the best technology and research to create the most impactful and fun movement experiences for children all over the world. justb currently hosts over 70 sensory-friendly movement classes designed through the lens of neurodivergent learners. Core features of justb classes include; emphasizing ‘fun’ through game-based activities, facilitating “just right'' challenges, learning and improving motor competency, and promoting shared positive participation with others. justb has demonstrated value in three settings: schools, neurodivergent family homes, and pediatric occupational therapy (OT) clinics.
In 14 schools, teachers are using justb to provide their students with self-regulation and sensory-motor activities. justb equips teachers with a practical way to integrate movement into their classroom supporting all students’ motivation, concentration, and engagement in the learning process. In homes, justb enhances the role of parents and complements the skills learned with specialists. justb increases opportunities for meaningful movement, and skill development and creates a space where families can connect. In 5 clinics, OTs use justb for skill acquisition, social skill development, parent training, and as a functional engagement tool for motor warmups. justb aligns with a strengths-based model that focuses on embracing diversity and accepting what is, knowing that everyone can grow and that there is always an opportunity to learn. The fact that some children do not have access to opportunities to be physically active due to the characteristics of their disability, socioeconomic status, or lack of physical space is occupational injustice. Physical movement is essential for our health but more importantly, it enables us to live deeper and fuller lives. Through intentional physical movement, we create a deeper understanding and connection between our minds and our bodies. This connection develops confidence and expands our field of awareness, opening new pathways for connection and consciousness.