Which theory is predominantly used by school-based therapists in Ayres' framework?

• A. Motor learning theory only
• B. Ayres' Sensory Integration Theory
• C. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• D. Sensory rejection theory

Answer: (B)

In Ayres' framework, the practice is guided by Ayres' Sensory Integration Theory, which centers on how the brain organizes sensory information from the body and the environment to produce adaptive behavior. This theory is the primary lens school-based occupational therapists use because it explains why children struggle with participation in classroom tasks—differences in sensory processing and modulation can affect attention, self-regulation, and motor planning.

Therapists design interventions that provide meaningful, sensory-rich experiences and challenge the child at just the right level to promote more integrated sensory processing. Activities are chosen to relate to school routines—like transitions, fine motor tasks, and gross motor play—so improved sensory integration translates into better participation, regulation, and learning in the classroom. While other approaches like motor learning or cognitive-behavioral strategies can be useful in certain contexts, they do not define the framework as specifically as Ayres' Sensory Integration Theory, and there isn’t a recognized theory called sensory rejection that guides this practice.