Which option correctly characterizes Phase 1 of Ayres' sensory integration theory?

• A. Phase 2: building blocks for emotional stability in second year
• B. Phase 1: tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive integrated in first year
• C. Phase 3: speech and language depend on sensory integration
• D. Phase 4: postural control emerges

Answer: (B)

Phase 1 centers on establishing a foundation by integrating tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive input to support regulation and body awareness in infancy. This early organization of sensory information helps the nervous system modulate arousal and generate appropriate motor responses, setting the stage for later, more complex processing. That’s why describing this phase as involving tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive integration occurring in the first year best fits Ayres’ framework. The other statements mix up the phase order or attribute higher-level functions to this initial stage (for example, tying emotional stability or speech-language development to Phase 1), which doesn’t align with how Phase 1 is defined.