Creating a garden isn’t just about growing plants or making your outdoor space look pretty—it’s a chance to build something meaningful, especially for children with autism. A sensory garden can be a calm, engaging space where they can explore, learn, and feel at ease. By tailoring the garden to their sensory needs, you’re not just creating a space, you’re providing an environment that supports their development and well-being whilst being practical at the same time.
Here’s our ultimate guide to designing a sensory garden that works.
Why Create a Sensory Garden?
For children with autism, sensory experiences can feel overwhelming. A sensory garden helps bridge the gap between their sensory needs and the natural world. Here’s why they’re so beneficial:
- Exploration at their pace: Children can touch, smell, hear, and see new things without pressure.
- Emotional regulation: A calming environment can reduce anxiety and help them feel grounded.
- Motor skill development: Activities like planting, watering, or walking on textured paths build coordination.
- Connection to nature: Studies show being outdoors helps with stress and improves mood.
Five Senses, One Garden
A sensory garden works best when it engages all five senses. Let’s break it down into practical ideas for each sense.
1. Sight
- Stick to calming colors like greens, blues, and purples to create a relaxing atmosphere.
- Include plants with interesting shapes, like ferns or sunflowers, to keep things visually stimulating without being overwhelming.
- Add a focal point, like a wind spinner or a water feature, to draw attention and provide a sense of calm.
2. Smell
- Fragrant plants like lavender, mint, or rosemary are brilliant—they smell great and have calming effects.
- Be careful with strong scents, as some kids may find them too intense.
- Raised herb beds are ideal, making it easy to explore smells at a comfortable height.
3. Touch
- Think about texture! Plants like lamb’s ear (soft), succulents (smooth), or tree bark (rough) are perfect for tactile exploration.
- Create pathways with materials like gravel, woodchips, or rubber mats to provide a variety of surfaces.
- Add interactive features like a water table or sandpit for sensory play.
4. Sound
- Use natural sound sources like bamboo wind chimes, rustling grasses, or a bubbling fountain.
- Interactive sound features, like outdoor drums or xylophones, can be a fun addition.
- Keep it gentle—loud or sharp noises might upset sensitive children.
5. Taste
- Plant some edible goodies like strawberries, peas, or edible flowers.
- Make sure everything is non-toxic and safe before planting.
- A small vegetable patch is a great way to teach kids where food comes from while engaging their senses.
How to Plan Your Sensory Garden
1. Assess Your Space
- Look at your garden’s size, shape, and sunlight. Even a small area can work.
- Check for any existing features that could be used, like shady spots or fences for climbing plants.
2. Decide on Zones
- Split your garden into areas for different activities. For example:
- A quiet corner with comfy seating for relaxation.
- A play area with tactile elements like sand or water.
- Use plants, trellises, or pathways to create natural boundaries.
3. Prioritize Safety
- Make sure pathways are even and accessible.
- Choose non-toxic plants and avoid anything with thorns or sharp edges.
- Include shaded spots to prevent overheating in sunny weather.
4. Think Long-Term
- Opt for durable, eco-friendly materials that will stand the test of time.
- Choose low-maintenance plants to make upkeep easier.
Getting Your Child Involved
Building the garden is just as important as using it. Involve your child every step of the way:
- Let them pick plants or features they like.
- Encourage them to help with planting or watering—it’s great for motor skills and connection.
- Pay attention to how they respond to different textures, smells, and sounds, and adapt the garden to suit their preferences.
Keeping It Going
A sensory garden isn’t a “set it and forget it” project. Regular maintenance is key:
- Trim overgrown plants and fix broken features.
- Refresh sensory elements like sand or water as needed.
- Add new plants or features to keep the garden engaging year-round.
Why It’s Worth It
A sensory garden isn’t just a place—it’s a tool for growth, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you have a big backyard or a tiny patio, you can create a space that supports your child’s needs and helps them thrive.
Start small, adapt as you go, and enjoy the process. The garden will grow alongside your child, becoming a space they’ll cherish for years to come.