What is Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI)?

Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) is a play-based approach used by occupational therapists to help children and young people who experience difficulties processing sensory information. It may also be used alongside other therapeutic approaches, including speech and language therapy.

The approach was developed by occupational therapist and psychologist Dr Jean Ayres. Although it was initially developed through work with autistic children, it is now used with people of different ages and with a range of needs, including learning disabilities and mental health difficulties.

The ® symbol means that Ayres Sensory Integration® is a recognised approach with specific principles that therapists must follow. This helps parents and carers distinguish ASI from other sensory activities or programmes that may not meet the criteria for this particular intervention.

How does sensory integration work?

Our brains are constantly receiving information from our bodies and the world around us through our senses. These include:

• Touch

• Movement and balance

• Body position

• Sight

• Hearing

• Smell

• Taste

• Interoception

Our brains need to organise and make sense of this information so that we can respond appropriately. For example, sensory information helps us know where our body is, how to move safely, how to pay attention, and how to respond to what is happening around us.

Some children and young people find it harder to process this information. This can affect their movement, coordination, attention, emotional regulation, learning, play, or ability to take part in everyday activities.

What does ASI therapy involve?

A detailed assessment is completed first to understand the child’s individual strengths, needs, and the difficulties they are experiencing. This helps the therapist develop goals that are meaningful to the child and their family.

ASI intervention usually takes place in a specially equipped therapy space. The therapist uses carefully selected sensory and movement activities, often involving climbing, swinging, balancing, pushing, pulling, or navigating challenges through play.

The activities are tailored to the child and gradually adjusted to provide the right level of challenge. The aim is not simply for the child to complete an activity or learn a particular skill. Instead, the activities are designed to help the brain process sensory information more effectively and develop appropriate responses to different situations.

What might ASI help with?

ASI aims to support improvements in areas such as:

• Understanding and responding to sensory information

• Emotional and sensory regulation

• Coordination and movement skills

• Planning and carrying out actions

• Confidence in trying new activities

• Participation in play, learning, and everyday activities

• Social interaction and engagement

Sensory processing difficulties can occur in children and adults with or without a formal diagnosis. ASI may be considered for individuals experiencing difficulties associated with autism, developmental coordination difficulties (dyspraxia), attention and hyperactivity difficulties, learning disabilities, and other developmental or functional needs.

Why is play important?

For children, ASI is centred around play. Play provides a natural and motivating way for children to explore movement, experience different sensations, and practise responding to increasingly challenging situations.

The therapist works collaboratively with the child and their parents or carers to ensure that the activities are meaningful, enjoyable, and linked to the child’s everyday goals.