Untangling the Sensory Knot: Clarifying Theory, Practice, and Decision-Making in School Practice

The growing interest in Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) in schools has sparked curiosity, questions, and, at times, confusion within the occupational therapy community. In addition, terminology including ASI, sensory integration, and sensory processing appears to be used interchangeably, which only adds to this confusion and blurs the boundaries between theory, practice, and professional roles.

Practitioners need to understand their role in school practice and recognize the wide range of theories, models, and frames of reference available to guide effective decision-making. This understanding helps them navigate their work with clarity, purpose, and professional confidence.

This webinar offers a space to explore, question, and think critically about sensory approaches in schools. Participants will examine the history and evolution of sensory theory, understand how ASI differs from other sensory-based interventions, and consider how to apply sensory knowledge thoughtfully to support meaningful participation in routines, learning, and engagement. The session encourages practitioners to become active discoverers, reviewing evidence, weighing options, and drawing their own conclusions about what works in context.

Educational Objectives

• Describe and analyze sensory approaches – Participants will describe ASI, other sensory-based interventions, and related terminology, and analyze the fit of each to an occupation-centered, participation-focused role in school practice.
• Evaluate and apply evidence – Participants will evaluate research and frameworks, and develop strategies for collaborative, student-centered practice that highlights OT’s value in schools.
• Reflect and discuss professional role – Participants will reflect on their own reasoning and role, articulate contributions to student participation, and engage in discussion of professional dilemmas."

Guest Speaker:

Joyce E. Rioux, EdD, OTR/L, SCSS, FAOTA

Dr. Rioux brings over 40 years of experience in school occupational therapy, offering a unique perspective on how laws, regulations, and evolving trends have shaped practice. She is a consultant for the Capitol Region Education Council (CREC) and has led a department of related service providers, championing evidence-based, student-centered services. Joyce serves as Co-Chair of ConnOTA’s Government Affairs Committee, led the 2025 revisions to Connecticut’s Guidelines for Occupational Therapy in Schools, and facilitates a statewide school OT community of practice with the Connecticut State Department of Education and RESC Alliance. Nationally, she is past Chair of AOTA’s Commission on Continuing Competence and Professional Development and contributed to AOTA’s 2025 School Practice Briefing Paper. An active presenter and educator, Joyce is co-editor of Best Practices for Occupational Therapy in Schools, 2nd Edition (2019) and contributor to Best Practices for Occupational Therapy in Early Childhood (2021), sharing strategies for current, evidence-informed, and collaborative school practice.

CEUs

Free CEUs: Attendees can receive a letter acknowledging their attendance, which can be submitted for recertification and/or licensure renewal. NBCOT or State Licensure-specific requirements may apply.