What is a sensory circuit?
A sensory circuit is a combination of activities that help children to effectively process, organise and interpret sensory information from the world around them. It helps children to achieve an optimal level of alertness required for learning.
What does the research tell us about sensory circuits?
Sensory circuits are widely used by Occupational Therapists and SEN practitioners and so there is an abundance of practice-based evidence. In terms of theory, sensory circuits are grounded in Sensory Integration principles which is a research-based theory founded by Jean Ayres. It should be noted that there are few large-scale, controlled studies looking specifically at sensory circuits as an intervention, but there is good evidence for its parts (e.g., movement, sensory integration, sensory modulation).
Sensory Circuit Examples
Although sensory circuits can be tailored to an individual child’s needs, circuits typically follow the ALERTING > ORGANISING > CALMING order so that it effectively regulates a child’s nervous system.
For this information in a visual format, we have a FREE sensory circuits overview on our free resources page. For a more in depth look at sensory circuits that includes information on Sensory Integration theory and sensory modulation, we have a more in-depth training course for school staff which is written and delivered by highly experienced children’s Occupational Therapist, Roz Roscoe.
