FORT SMITH, AR — The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) hosted an egg-cellent day of fun during its Inclusive Egg Hunt event at the ACHE Celebration Garden and Wellness Park.
The event welcomed children and families of all abilities to a sensory-friendly, candy-filled spring celebration. A total of 105 children attended, and more than 3,000 eggs were hidden throughout the park — each filled with sensory toys, candy, stickers, and more — creating a fun and inclusive experience for everyone.
Guests enjoyed a variety of activities including games, photo opportunities, and a cheerful visit from the Easter Bunny. The Inclusive Egg Hunt was thoughtfully designed to ensure that every child could participate and enjoy the festivities in a way that felt comfortable and accessible.
“Hosting and organizing events like this shows everyone a little bit more about occupational therapy and what we can do and how we can support the community and social engagement,” said Karlie Ramsey, OTS II and SOTA President.
Upon graduation, Ramsey hopes to pursue a career in pediatric occupational therapy and is also interested in hand therapy. “Just seeing the smiles on the faces — that really lights up my day and honestly makes all of it worth it,” Ramsey added. 
The event was made possible in part thanks to the generous support of Little Hands at Play Therapy, whose sponsorship helped bring the day to life.
“This egg hunt just gives us a great opportunity for kids of all abilities to come out, feel a little extra special, but it also gives the students a chance to showcase their skills and their love for children,” said Jeremy Schalski, OTA, ACHE OT Adjunct Instructor, and Co-Owner of Little Hands at Play Therapy.
“The best thing is actually getting to see a lot of the kids outside the therapy environment. They get to come out here and just be kids. They get to interact with kids from all over the River Valley. And you get to see a lot of smiles, a lot of laughs, high fives and fist bumps. That’s the best part,” Schalski said.
ACHE SOTA extends a heartfelt thank-you to all who attended and helped make this inclusive, joy-filled day a success.
