OT Baby Day 2025: A Celebration of Learning and Collaboration
The annual interdisciplinary Baby Day event was held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in Saint Margaret Hall. The event brought together students, faculty, families, and 22 young children, ages 8 weeks to 4 1/2 years.
This year’s Baby Day continued the tradition of meaningful, hands-on learning by uniting Occupational Therapy, Education, and Nursing students for a shared developmental lab experience. Organized by Dr. Julie Nagle for her OT 508 Pediatric Occupational Therapy course and by Dr. Cassie Grassmyer for her education students, and supported by faculty from all three departments, the event highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
A Unique Learning Environment
The 22 participating children brought energy and authenticity to the experience, allowing students to observe and engage with real developmental behaviors rather than simulated cases. Through structured play, observation, and guided activities, students explored:
- Early childhood developmental milestones
- Reflexes and motor skills
- Sensory engagement
- The role of play in learning and growth
The hands-on experience allowed students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, strengthening their confidence and clinical reasoning skills.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Action
Bringing together OT, Education, and Nursing added depth to the learning experience. Students worked alongside one another, each contributing a unique professional perspective:
- OT students assessed developmental skills and sensory needs
- Education students explored early learning, communication, and classroom readiness
- Nursing students observed health, safety, and caregiving aspects of early childhood
This approach helped students see how multiple professions support children and families in complementary ways.
Positive Impact on Students and Families
Parents and caregivers expressed appreciation for the warm, supportive environment and the opportunity to participate in a community-focused learning experience. Students reported feeling more prepared for their future roles, gaining insight into developmental differences, and valuing the opportunity to interact directly with children and families.
More about the Occupational Therapy Program at SFU
Saint Francis University’s Master of Occupational Therapy program offers a hands-on, multidisciplinary learning experience that prepares students for meaningful careers helping individuals live fuller, more independent lives. With cutting-edge facilities, expert faculty mentorship, flexible undergraduate and graduate pathways, and extensive fieldwork opportunities, the program blends high-tech tools with compassionate, real-world practice to help students grow into confident, well-rounded occupational therapists.