The Benefits of Outdoor Play & Toys for Children with SEND/ALN

Outdoor play can support regulation, strength, coordination and confidence. Fresh air, space to move and a change of setting often make activities feel easier and more motivating. With simple routines and the right kit, time outside can be calmer, safer and more independent.

Safety note: Always supervise around roads, water and heights. Choose surfaces and spaces suited to the activity, and follow the manufacturer’s age and weight guidance on any ride-ons or equipment.

Who this can help

  • Children and young people who benefit from movement and “heavy work” for regulation
  • Those developing balance, core strength, bilateral coordination and motor planning
  • Anyone who enjoys sensory exploration but needs clear boundaries and simple routines
  • Families, schools and settings planning accessible, low-stress outdoor play

Benefits of outdoor play

  • Regulation & mood: movement and deep-muscle effort can help calm busy bodies and minds.
  • Motor skills: chances to push, pull, steer, build and balance support gross and fine motor development.
  • Confidence & choice: wider spaces make it easier to offer preferred activities and clear stop/start points.
  • Social & communication: simple turn-taking games and building together create natural opportunities to interact.

Quick wins

  • Start small: 5–10 minute sessions with a clear beginning and end work well.
  • Make a go-bag: wipes, drink, spare layer, small first-aid and a simple visual “start/finish” card.
  • Choose timing: quieter times of day reduce noise and crowding.
  • Set boundaries: mark a safe play zone and a calm “base” (bench, mat, shaded spot).
  • One change at a time: introduce a new toy or game and practise; praise every step.

Environment & setup

  • Check the surface (flat, grippy, free of obstacles) and leave clear space around ride-ons and running games.
  • Offer shade and water breaks in warm weather; add warm layers and gloves when it’s cold.
  • Have a simple “finish” routine (drink, snack, quick tidy) to help transitions back indoors.

Products that can help

Here are three versatile options for movement, building and sensory pathways. Pick items that fit age, setting and budget.

  • Coloured Didicar — self-propelled ride-on that encourages core strength, balance and bilateral coordination. Great for short movement bursts in playgrounds, halls or wide paths.
  • 50 Piece Giant Life Size Bricks — big-build play for “heavy work”, problem-solving and co-operative construction. Easy to grasp; ideal for walls, dens and obstacle ideas.
  • Sensory Liquid Floor Tiles – Hopscotch (set of 10) — create a numbered movement path for stepping, jumping and sequencing. Visual feedback encourages pacing and turn-taking.
  • Outdoor Play Collection — a whole section with products that can be used outside.

Simple play ideas

  • Movement circuit: ride the Didicar to a cone → park → jump the next two hopscotch squares → carry two “bricks” to the build zone.
  • Build & move: set a timer; build for 2 minutes, then ride one lap. Repeat for three rounds.
  • Number trail: call numbers or colours to step on the matching tile; swap roles so the child calls numbers for you.

Care & longevity

  • Wipe down after use and store kit dry; check for wear and loose parts before the next session.
  • Re-measure growing children against any product guidance so fit and handling stay safe.

Tips for success

  • Keep instructions short and consistent; model first, then let the child try.
  • Offer choices (ride or build first?) to boost engagement.
  • End on a positive; a short, successful session beats a long, tiring one.

Troubleshooting

  • Refusal to try: demonstrate, reduce the step size (one tile only), or switch order (build before ride).
  • Over-excitement: add clear pauses (count to 5 at “base”) and shorten laps/rounds.
  • Busy spaces: move to a quieter corner or change time of day.

Funding & budgets

Need advice?

Email enquiries@fledglings.org.uk with age, space available and goals (movement, balance, calm). We’ll suggest options that fit your budget. We accept Purchase Orders. UK delivery from £4.99.

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Last reviewed: 12 September 2025