Why you should create a sensory garden

The benefits of a sensory garden

The term sensory garden may seem strange as the outdoors environment is already a naturally sensory rich environment. However, because of this it is incredibly easy to enhance and can become a space enjoyed by all in the early years especially younger children and those with SEND. If you are lucky to have multiple gardens or outdoor areas you may choose to dedicate one to becoming a sensory garden or alternatively you may choose to section of a small area of the garden so children feel safe and without distraction when enjoying the benefits of the sensory garden.

What are the benefits of a sensory garden?

 There are many benefits to having a sensory garden these include:

·         Sensory Development

·         Calming

·         Encourages explorative and discovery skills

·         Communication and language skills are promoted

·         Allows children to engage with the environment

·         Promotes the characteristics of effective learning

·         Supports cognitive development

·         Promotes bodily awareness

How to create a sensory garden

Creating a sensory garden can be very easily done with a few simple resources such as:

·         Herbs – Planting herbs in a small planter or tyres is great for the sense of smell. Also the children can be encouraged to help care for and grow the herbs

·         Musical Wall – Create a simple musical wall using pots, pans, bells etc.

·         Wind Chimes

·         Wind Mills

·         Ribbons – These can be hung in trees etc or they can be on sticks for children to hold, wave and watch blow in the wind

·         Bird houses and feeders

·         Solar lights – Great for when the evenings start drawing in earlier

·         Sun catchers – If you want to make your own hanging CD’s are great for this

·         A pet such as a rabbit or chickens – The children can help look after the pet as well as gain benefits from the touch and comfort from a pet

·         Waterfall or a water wall where children can pour the water themselves

·         Mirrors – Make sure they are shatter proof

·         Textured stepping stones or pathways – These can be made simply by pouring concrete into a mould and adding various materials on top such as pebbles, twigs etc…

Creating a sensory garden will benefit children immensely, giving them the scope to develop their senses. Why not create a sensory garden in your outdoor area?