These simple outdoor activities will provide a calming aura while engaging your child's senses.
What better way to slow down our bodies than by immersing ourselves in the great outdoors with some outdoor sensory activities? These 3 activities are the perfect way to keep your little ones calm, entertained, get out of the house, and explore the wonders of their 5 senses. We call that a win!
Outdoor Sensory Calm Down Activities
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Nature Table: Capturing the Essence of the Season
One of the most enchanting ways to connect with nature is by creating a nature table. This simple yet engaging activity allows your child to explore and appreciate the natural world around them, even if that's just the backyard! Start by taking a stroll around the house, a nearby park, or even through a forest. Encourage your child to collect items that represent the season – vibrant flowers, smooth pebbles, fallen leaves, anything that interests them!
Once you’ve gathered your treasures, arrange them in a bowl as a centerpiece or designate a special table in your home as the nature table. This display becomes a tactile and visual exploration for the senses. Your child can investigate the textures, colors, and shapes! It also provides a wonderful opportunity to discuss the changing seasons around us while embracing a calm body.
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Moonlit Walks: Discovering the Nighttime Wonders
When the sun sets, grab a flashlight and head out on a moonlit walk with your kiddo. This activity is a fantastic way to release some energy to calm the mind and body before bedtime.
As you wander through your neighborhood or a nearby park, take a moment to gaze up at the moon. Discuss the current phase – is it a glowing full moon or a delicate crescent? The moon's phases can spark curiosity and lead to interesting conversations about space and the universe. Listen closely to the sounds of the night – the rustling leaves, the chirping crickets, and perhaps even the distant hoot of an owl. These sensory experiences create a sense of wonder and connection with nature that is truly magical.
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Shape and Color Hunt: Exploring the Backyard Palette
Your backyard is a treasure trove of shapes and colors waiting to be discovered. Outdoor calm down sensory activities like this one are perfect for engaging your child's sense of sight and encouraging their observational skills. You or your child can bring a notepad and some colored pencils, and set out on a backyard adventure.
Challenge your child to find as many different shapes and colors as they can. Is there a bright red flower in the garden? What about a round stone or a triangular leaf? This activity not only sharpens their awareness but also introduces concepts of shapes and color theory in a fun and approachable way.
Your Turn!
By engaging your child's five senses through outdoor sensory activities, you’re fostering a deep appreciation for the world around them. These experiences not only keep our little ones busy, but also educate, and build a sense of wonder that will last a lifetime. So, step outside, make some memories, and have fun!
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