At Centerpointe for Children in Irvine, California, our mission is to empower every child to reach their full potential. One of the most impactful tools we use to support children with developmental and sensory challenges is Ayres Sensory Integration® therapy—a time-tested, research-backed approach that helps children better understand and respond to the world around them.
Whether your child struggles with everyday tasks, emotional regulation, or social participation, Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) may hold the key to unlocking greater independence and confidence.
What Is Ayres Sensory Integration®?
Ayres Sensory Integration® is a specialized form of occupational therapy developed by Dr. A. Jean Ayres, an occupational therapist and educational psychologist based in Southern California. Dr. Ayres believed that a child’s ability to learn and grow is deeply connected to how they process sensory information—from touch and movement to sight and sound.
Children who have difficulty integrating sensory input may appear:
- Overly sensitive to lights, textures, or noise
- Clumsy or fearful of movement
- Easily frustrated or overwhelmed
- Disconnected from their environment
- Prone to emotional outbursts or meltdowns
Ayres Sensory Integration aims to improve how the brain organizes and responds to sensory input, helping children become more confident, regulated, and functional in daily life.
How Does Ayres Sensory Integration Work?
ASI therapy is provided in a sensory-rich environment—often referred to as a “sensory gym”—designed to deliver meaningful experiences through movement, touch, pressure, and play. At Centerpointe for Children in Irvine, our sensory gym includes:
- Swings for vestibular (balance) stimulation
- Climbing structures and crash pads
- Weighted materials for proprioceptive input
- Tunnels and obstacle courses
- Activities that encourage motor planning, balance, and coordination
Therapists carefully structure each session using four core principles of ASI:
- Just-Right Challenge: Activities are neither too easy nor too difficult, promoting engagement and growth.
- Active Engagement: The child is motivated and willing to participate.
- Adaptive Response: The child develops new skills and behaviors as a result of the activity.
- Child-Directed Play: Sessions are guided by the child's interests, ensuring motivation and cooperation.
Through repeated sensory-rich experiences, the brain develops stronger pathways for organizing sensory input—resulting in improved attention, behavior, motor skills, and social interaction.
Is Ayres Sensory Integration Evidence-Based?
Yes—Ayres Sensory Integration is supported by a growing body of research, especially when delivered with fidelity to the ASI model. A 2019 systematic review published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy found that ASI is an evidence-based practice for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) between the ages of 4 and 12 when delivered by certified professionals in a properly equipped sensory gym (Source).
At Centerpointe for Children, our therapists are trained in the CLASI Fidelity Measures to ensure that every ASI session is delivered in accordance with the highest professional standards.
Who Can Benefit from Ayres Sensory Integration?
Children with the following challenges often benefit from ASI therapy:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
- ADHD or attention difficulties
- Developmental delays
- Learning differences
- Coordination and balance issues
If your child has difficulty handling sensory input—such as being overwhelmed by noisy environments, avoiding certain textures, or frequently bumping into objects—ASI may provide the support they need to thrive.
Helping Children Thrive in Irvine and Beyond
At Centerpointe for Children, we proudly serve families across Irvine, Tustin, Costa Mesa, Lake Forest, and the surrounding Orange County communities. Our goal is to help your child grow stronger—not just physically, but emotionally and socially—through proven, compassionate care.
We believe that when sensory systems are integrated, children become more capable of learning, connecting with others, and experiencing joy in daily life. With Ayres Sensory Integration therapy, we see children blossom into confident learners, playful participants, and independent problem-solvers.
Get Started with Ayres Sensory Integration in Irvine, CA
Wondering if ASI is right for your child? We offer comprehensive evaluations to determine your child’s unique sensory profile and developmental needs. From there, we develop a customized therapy plan that meets your family’s goals.