My Road
11.02.2025
3 min read
Repat Story
Repatriates' Expertise for Leaving No Child Behind
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On Our Repatriation
In 2021, our family seriously considered repatriating to Armenia for the first time. Repat Armenia has already shared the story of how our journey began in their article “The Man Who Found His Way Home.”
Our decision wasn’t just about changing our own lives. We also wanted to give back – using our skills and experience to contribute to Armenian society.
One of the fields we work in is journalism. My personal project, “Armenia – A Corner of the Soul”, has been warmly received by readers. You can explore it here.
But a big part of our efforts is focused on children and youth. My wife, Natalia Bogdanova, is a child development specialist and pediatric neuropsychologist. She works with children who need a specialized approach. The demand for such expertise in Armenia is huge. That’s why, in 2023, we founded the Armenian Institute of Sensory Integration (AISI).
AISI’s goal is to combine theory with practical tools that make a real difference in children’s lives – as well as the lives of their families.
Today, AISI represents Armenia in the International Council for Ayres Sensory Integration® (ICE-ASI), which helps shape global standards for ASI education and practice.
The Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) method was developed in the 20th century by American occupational therapist and educational psychologist Dr. Anna Jean Ayres. Since then, it has gained recognition worldwide.
One of our first big steps was creating a sensory-dynamic hall in Yerevan. We carefully selected standardized equipment and designed the space to be as comfortable and functional as possible. Here, we run developmental and corrective programs designed by AISI specialists.
Supporting Parents, Reaching More Children
Our work goes beyond therapy. We support and educate parents, build communities and raise awareness about the sensory integration method in Armenia. Every day, we see the impact – helping children grow, gain confidence and succeed.
In September, we hosted a roundtable discussion on “Ayres Sensory Integration (ICE-ASI) in Armenia: Theory and Practice.”
In December, a delegation from Armenia’s State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports visited us. Currently, our specialists are training students at the sensory-dynamic hall, sharing knowledge on implementing the Ayres Sensory Integration method.
But there’s still so much more to do! We have created a training course for professionals – teachers, doctors, tutors and social workers – anyone who helps children with developmental differences navigate daily life, school and social interactions. Bringing this knowledge to Armenia’s remote regions is especially important. That’s where it can make the biggest impact.
We’re proud to be part of Armenia’s development, creating opportunities for children to reach their full potential. And we’re just getting started. Our plans include expanding our programs, involving international experts and advancing scientific research. We believe this work will leave a lasting mark on many families' lives.
Dmitry Zavrazhnov
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Armenian by Choice
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