Sensory Based Interventions: What Does the Research Say?
Sensory based interventions are widely used in classrooms, therapy settings, and homes to support children with sensory processing differences. A recent systematic review examined research from 2015 to 2024 to determine which approaches improve real functional outcomes for children and youth. The review focused on participation, attention, sleep, regulation, and daily task performance. Learn more about what SBIs are, how they differ from Ayres Sensory Integration, and which strategies are supported by research.
Understanding the Purpose of Sensory Based Interventions
Sensory based interventions are designed to temporarily adjust a child’s physiological arousal. When a child is either over aroused or under aroused, it becomes difficult to focus, stay calm, or participate in activities. SBIs aim to help the child reach a more regulated state so learning and engagement become easier.
SBIs are rooted in sensory integration theory because sensory input affects attention, emotional control, and readiness for learning. They offer quick sensory support that helps children prepare for tasks, transitions, or routines.
SBIs aim to:
• Support regulation in the moment
• Increase participation in daily tasks
• Help children manage transitions
• Reduce frustration and behavioral challenges
How SBIs Differ From Ayres Sensory Integration
Although both draw from sensory integration theory, sensory based interventions are not the same as Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI). ASI is a specialized therapeutic approach focused on long term change in how a child processes sensory information. SBIs, in contrast, focus on immediate support for participation.
Key features of Ayres Sensory Integration include:
• One on one intervention delivered by a therapist with advanced ASI training
• Required mentorship and strict fidelity measures
• Child led, active play experiences
• Activities designed at the just right challenge
• A focus on helping children build adaptive responses over time
ASI is a comprehensive therapeutic model that uses skilled clinical reasoning and individualized activities.
Key features of SBIs include:
• Short, adult directed strategies
• Often passive sensory input
• Used to temporarily improve regulation or attention
• Simpler to implement in natural routines
• Not required to follow any fidelity framework
SBIs give the child a boost of sensory input to help them participate in the moment, rather than aiming to change the sensory system long term.
Sensory Path for School and Home DIGITAL version Sensory Stops
What SBIs Look Like in Practice
Sensory based interventions can be used throughout the day in a variety of settings. They provide targeted sensory input that is easy to integrate into routines.
Examples of SBIs include:
• Massage or joint compressions
• Weighted blankets or vests
• Earmuffs for sound sensitivity
• Passive swinging
• Adjusted lighting or reduced noise
• Use of quiet corners or sensory spaces
• Teacher or caregiver training in simple sensory strategies
These strategies can be built into morning routines, classroom transitions, bedtime routines, and therapy sessions.
Who Can Use SBIs
Another important difference between ASI and SBIs is who can implement them.
SBIs can be used by:
• Parents and caregivers
• Teachers and paraprofessionals
• School based therapists
• Community staff
• The child independently, when appropriate
SBIs are accessible and practical, making them a common part of school and home routines.
Key Research Findings
A systematic review of 21 studies gives helpful guidance on which sensory based interventions are effective.
Strong evidence supports:
• Deep pressure tactile input
• Caregiver training and home based sensory strategies
Moderate evidence supports:
• Multisensory approaches used consistently
• Sensory strategies matched to the child’s specific sensory needs
Little or no evidence supports:
• Alternative seating for improving attention
• Fidget spinners as a focus tool
• Noise canceling headphones for functional auditory goals
More research is needed for:
• Sensory environmental modifications
• Classroom wide sensory spaces
• School based sensory room design
Heavy Work Sensory Activities Packet
More Details about the Sensory Based Interventions Study
- Deep Pressure Tactile Input – Deep pressure tactile input was the only sensory technique with strong and consistent evidence. Strategies such as weighted blankets, firm pressure, and massage showed improvements in sleep, motor development, and regulation for children with sensory challenges and ADHD.
- Caregiver Training and Home Based Sensory Routines – Teaching caregivers how to use sensory strategies throughout daily routines also showed strong benefits. Studies reported improvements in emotional functioning, behavior, occupational performance, and overall family quality of life. This highlights the importance of consistent use across environments.
- Alternative Seating – Studies on stability balls, wobble seats, and cube chairs showed no meaningful improvement in attention or productivity. These seating options may still be comfortable or enjoyable, but should not be relied upon as attention improving tools.
- Multisensory Techniques – Multisensory strategies that combine movement, proprioception, and tactile input can help some students, especially when included in predictable routines. Results vary and depend on the child’s sensory profile and functional goals.
- Single Sensory System Techniques – Approaches that rely on one type of sensory input showed mixed results. For example, earmuffs helped children with sound sensitivity during auditory tasks, but noise canceling headphones did not show the same benefit. This reinforces the importance of matching the strategy to the child’s specific need and activity demands.
What This Means for Educators, Therapists, and Parents
Sensory based interventions work best when:
- They are chosen based on the child’s unique sensory profile
- They support specific functional goals
- They are used consistently across settings
- Adults collaborate closely across home and school
- They supplement, not replace, high quality instruction and behavior supports
Deep pressure and caregiver training stand out as the most supported strategies. Multisensory interventions can be helpful, while alternative seating should be considered optional, not therapeutic.
More Information
- Sensory Integration at School
- Sensory Path Hallway Ideas for School
- How to Deal with Sensory Overload
Reference
Piller, A., McHugh Conlin, J., Glennon, T. J., Andelin, L., Auld-Wright, K., Teng, K., & Tarver, T. Systematic Review of Sensory-Based Interventions for Children and Youth (2015-2024). Frontiers in Pediatrics, 13, 1720179.
