Which informal observation item is listed in Ayres’ framework?

• A. Equilibrium reactions
• B. Gait analysis
• C. Handwriting quality
• D. Hearing screening

Answer: (A)

Equilibrium reactions capture how a child regulates posture and balance in response to movement, reflecting how well the vestibular and proprioceptive systems are integrated during tasks. In Ayres’ sensory integration framework, informal observation items are behavioral cues you notice during play that indicate how sensory systems are organizing action. Equilibrium reactions are included because they reveal the child's ability to maintain or regain stable posture when the body or environment is challenged, which is central to sensory integration functioning.

Gait analysis looks at overall walking patterns and mechanics, which goes beyond the specific, observable indicators Ayres highlighted for sensory integration. Handwriting quality is primarily about fine motor skill and motor learning, not the internal integration of sensory inputs that Ayres focused on. Hearing screening assesses auditory acuity, a sensory function but not one of the informal observation items used to gauge sensory integration in the framework.