[updated 2019]
Sensory integration is the neurological process by which the brain organises and interprets sensory information from the body and the environment, allowing individuals to respond adaptively (appropriately) to sensory input. This means doing the right thing at the right time and in the right way. This process involves processing sensory inputs from the five traditional senses: sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. It also includes proprioception (awareness of body position), vestibular senses (the sense of head movement in space impacting balance and spatial orientation), and interoception (awareness of internal body signals such as hunger and thirst).
Importance of Sensory Integration in Development
- Foundation for Learning and Behavior
- Sensory integration is a critical process that allows people to engage with their environment and develop essential skills. For example, a person needs to process and integrate sensory input effectively to balance while walking, hold a pencil for writing, or pay attention in class or at work.
- Challenges in sensory integration can result in difficulties with thinking, planning and organising what to do now and next. Therapists call this adaptive response in a novel situation “praxis.” Praxis skills can impact motor skills, self-regulation, and attention, impacting learning and behaviour.
- Motor Skill Development
- Gross motor skills (e.g., running, jumping) and fine motor skills (e.g., cutting with scissors, tying shoelaces) depend on well-integrated sensory systems.
- Proprioceptive and vestibular input are particularly important for coordinated movement and balance.
- Emotional Regulation
- Sensory integration affects a person’s ability to regulate emotions. For instance, people who struggle with sensory integration and processing may feel overwhelmed by certain textures, noises, or movements, leading to difficulties participating successfully in everyday life. This can be a source of frustration or even lead to meltdowns. Over time, this can negatively impact mental health and well-being, including the development of self-esteem and a sense of agency in the world.
- Effective sensory integration helps children adapt to their surroundings, fostering resilience and self-regulation.
- Social Interaction
- Sensory integration supports social development by helping children interpret non-verbal cues and communicate using body language, speech and/or signing; sometimes, these differences are seen in how the person manages personal space and tolerates different sensory experiences in social settings.
- Cognitive Development
- Sensory input plays a significant role in building neural pathways that support learning. People of all ages explore and make sense of their world through sensory experiences, fundamental for cognitive growth and continued ability across the lifespan.
Indicators of Sensory Integration Challenges
The person may
- Avoid certain sensory experiences, such as loud noises, bright lights, or specific textures (sensory defensiveness).
- Seeking excessive sensory input, such as spinning, jumping, or rough play (sensory seeking).
- Difficulties with praxis are seen in motor tasks, like riding a bike on an unfamiliar track, using different utensils, or learning new skills with new equipment.
- Challenges in maintaining attention or regulating emotions.
- Unmet sensory needs [sometimes called behaviours that are challenged by some] may stem from sensory overwhelm or under-responsiveness and related differences with sensory perception.
Supporting Sensory Integration Development and Function
- Sensory-Enriched Activities
- Activities that involve “heavy work” with head and body movement, such as pushing and pulling, lifting, riding, swinging, climbing, crafting, cooking, and playing with textured materials, can enhance sensory integration.
- Incorporating sensory breaks into daily routines can help people regulate their sensory systems. (Ayres 1972)
- Ayres Sensory Integration® Therapy
- This evidence-based therapy, developed by Dr. A. Jean Ayres, focuses on active, individually tailored sensory-motor activities contextualised in play at just-the-right challenge. (Schaaf 2014)
- Delivered by trained occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists, it supports improved motor skills, self-regulation, and participation in daily activities.
- Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment
- Modifying environments to meet a person’s sensory needs, such as movement breaks and using alternative seating options like rocker chairs, can significantly improve their comfort and participation. (Ayres 1979)
- Parental and Educational Support
- Educating caregivers and teachers about sensory integration can help them recognise sensory needs and implement strategies to support the person in various settings. (Ayres 1979, Smith 2005)
Conclusion
Sensory integration is an essential cornerstone of healthy child development. Understanding, integrating, and making sense of sensory inputs informs and underpins foundational motor skills, emotional regulation, social interaction, and learning.
Addressing sensory integration and processing challenges early through supportive environments, sensory-rich activities, and, when needed, Ayres Sensory Integration® Therapy can help people thrive and reach their full potential.