Natasha Fernandez

LEI 4724
Activity: Sensory Safari
Source: (Center & Information, 2008), (Rolling, on all fours over different materials as exercise,
2009), (Sensory, n.d.)
Equipment Needed: carpets or rugs of any texture, blankets of any textures, bubble wrap, card
board, soda bottles of any size, pieces of clothing, pillows of any texture, or any smooth surface

Activity Description:
1.
2.
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4.

Securely strap down all materials needed to complete this activity.

A group of 10 participants may engage in this activity. An assistant can be used if needed.
Have the participants form a line one behind the other.
Introduce the activity by saying Hello my name is _____________ and were going on a
Sensory Safari. The therapist will demonstrate each movement in order to complete the
activity. The therapist will demonstrate how to walk on their knees, crawl on all fours, and
how to roll.
5. Carpets, rugs, blankets, bubble wrap, and card board will be laid out on the floor and
strapped down securely. Soda bottles, pieces of clothing and pillows will be used as
obstacles where the participants must get around them. The therapist will direct each
participant through the obstacle course by telling them to walk on their knees, crawl on all
fours or roll.
6. Continue the activity until each participant has reached the finish line.

Leadership Considerations:
1. For individuals with Down Syndrome, the goal is to stimulate their sense of touch. By
doing so, these individuals will be more susceptible to sensory processing. Some
adaptations include using movements that are age-appropriate. For children, walking on
their knees, crawling on all fours, and rolling can be used as movements. For adults, some
movements may include walking on their toes and hopping over items. Ankle weights may
be added to promote coordination and balance. Once they finish the obstacle course, the
therapist must provide positive feedback for completing the task.
2. For individuals with cerebral palsy, the goal is to stimulate their proprioception processing
and their sense of touch. For participants that use assistive devices, adaptations include
spacing out soda bottles, pieces of clothing and pillows so that they can maneuver
themselves through the obstacle course. Another adaptation includes using movements like
going side to side and coming forward. Once the participants reach the finish line, provide
positive feedback.