Mindful nature connection, sensing the natural world around us 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
What's going on?
The Benefits of...
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.
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!
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.
