Mindful nature connection, sensing the natural world around and within us.
SENDsenses C.I.C specialises in providing outdoor sensory sessions, catering specifically to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) as well as those with social, emotional, and mental health challenges (SEMH), however a diagnosis is not required. Our aim is to improve mental health and overall well-being through nature connection, sensory play, specialised yoga, mindfulness practices, arts and crafts activities, and social interaction. By creating a safe and nurturing environment, we offer a unique experience where children can learn, grow, have fun, and develop social skills. Furthermore, our sessions provide respite for families and communities, helping to foster connections, and promote a safe environment for everyone to thrive.
We practice being;
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Present
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Open and Honest
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Safe
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Trustworthy
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Accepting and Non-judgemental
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Kind
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Caring and Loving
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Connected / Relational
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Child led / Invitational
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Regulated / Recognise co-regulation
We strive for children to feel;
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Accepted
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Valued
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Understood
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Safe / Secure and Supported
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Nurtured
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Connected
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Free to express themselves
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Equal
Services
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2 hr
5 British pounds
A weekly group for children with SEND who are out of education / home educated.
A time to connect with peers, nature and themselves.
Join us for gardening, building, outdoor skills, crafts, mindfulness and nature connection.
This is an optional drop off service for children aged 8-16, for children under 8 parents are expected to stay.
Children dropped off should have a level of independence otherwise an adult/carer is expected to stay.
These sessions are made possible with thanks to National Lottery Players'
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2 British pounds
A monthly slot of open access to the orchard.
A safe and understanding space for children with SEND and their families to enjoy nature. There is no structure or guidance for this session as it is purely to enjoy the space without the fear of judgement.
It is available for the whole family to attend and we hold 10 spaces for this.
These sessions are made possible with thanks to National Lottery Players'
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1 hr 30 min
3 British pounds
During the half-terms and holidays we provide family sessions that include child-led sensory play, nature connection, scavenger hunts, art and mindful movement.
This is a space for the whole family, so parents are expected to stay and siblings are welcome too.
We offer 10 spaces for each group.
These sessions have previously been funded by Access Sport
Now these sessions are made possible with thanks to National Lottery Players'
1 hr
50 British pounds
2 hr
5 British pounds
SENDsenses is offering a unique opportunity for children with special needs to explore nature and engage in sensory play. We are hosting five drop off sessions over the summer holidays, allowing five children to explore the orchard for two hours per session. Please note, children should have a level of independence, including toileting, as we do not provide intimate care and be over the age of 8. If you are interested, book now to secure a spot and we will get back to you to confirm. Dates: 23.07.25, 05.08.25, 12.08.25, 19.08.25, 26.08.25
In our 1-2-1 sessions, we prioritise getting to know your child and tailoring our support to their specific needs, through a mixture of mindfulness, specialised yoga, breath-work and nature connection. We start with a phone consultation or meeting to gather more information about your child. Following that, we invite your child to come and visit The Orchard, allowing them to determine if it is the right fit for them. We believe in creating a personalised and child-centered approach.
Where to find us...
The Orchard, Church Lane, Portbury, BS20 7TR
The Orchard
At SENDsenses, we believe in the healing power of nature and this is why our sessions are held at The Orchard. Our mindful walks through The Orchard provide ample opportunity for you to ground yourself and connect with the wildlife around you, whilst getting plenty of fresh air. Our sessions are designed to help you disconnect from the stressful world around you, tune into the present moment and tap into your senses connecting your body and mind. Join us and experience the restorative power of mindfulness and nature!
The Benefits of...
Children can feel as if they don't belong or struggle to find a place where they can fully be themselves, we want to create a community that is free of judgement and encourage self-expression.
Being Outdoors
Being immersed in nature brings a sense of calm and a wide sensory experience. Nature encourages physical benefits but also a sense of freedom, to be messy and noisy, creative and imaginative.
Self regulation
Learning tools of self regulation to help combat general anxieties, using the nature around us as well as the nature within us to cultivate some inner calm.
Parent/carer rest-bite
Parents and caregivers can relax and connect with others in a supportive community while enjoying nature, knowing their children are safe in a secure environment. Drop-off options are also available.
Why do we work outdoors?
Working outdoors offers a multitude of benefits that contribute to the overall growth and well-being of children. The outdoor environment provides a sense of freedom and allows for physical activity, while the calming presence of trees and nature promotes relaxation. Being in nature can also stimulate creativity and imagination. Sensory play with elements such as mud, water, and sand further enhances the sensory experience. Additionally, the ever-changing weather adds another dimension to the sensory exploration. While hazards may exist outdoors, they provide valuable learning opportunities for children to identify risks, make mistakes, and learn from them, fostering a sense of resilience and self-awareness.
What is a sensory walk?
A sensory walk is a mindful walking experience that engages all of the senses. During a sensory walk, participants focus on observing and exploring their surroundings using their sight, hearing, smell, touch, and even taste. This can involve paying attention to details such as the patterns of tree bark and leaves, the sounds of birds and rustling leaves, the scent of flowers or herbs, the texture of tree trunks, and even the taste of a freshly picked fruit. By immersing oneself in the sensory stimuli of nature, a sensory walk enhances sensory awareness and promotes mindfulness and connection with the environment.
Why do we incorporate barefoot trails?
Incorporating barefoot trails in outdoor activities serves several purposes. Firstly, it aids in improving balance and posture by engaging the foot muscles that are usually supported by shoes. Walking barefoot also brings about a heightened sense of presence and mindfulness as it requires increased attention to the sensations felt through the feet. The soles of the feet are sensitive due to the multitude of nerve endings they contain, making them an ideal area for sensory stimulation. By offering various textures and surfaces to walk over, barefoot trails create a rich sensory experience that enhances overall sensory perception and tactile awareness.
We appreciate your interest in our services, and we are here to support you and your child. If you have any questions or queries, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Our approach is child-led and child-centered, so we usually begin with a phone consultation or meeting to understand more about the child and customise our support accordingly. Then, we encourage a visit to The Orchard to ensure it aligns with the child's needs. You can reach us by email at sendsenses@gmail.com or by filling out the contact sheet below. We look forward to hearing from you.
