HOW TO MAKE AN OUTDOOR SENSORY WALL: CREATIVE BACKYARD DIY
If I’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that sensory play isn’t just fun—it’s powerful! A sensory-rich environment allows children to explore their surroundings, experience new sensations, and stimulate their developing brains simultaneously. And, while there are a ton of fun things to do inside, why not take it outdoors?
I’ve found that one of the most effective ways to combine the power of play and the benefits of nature is simply by taking it outside. I’ve shared ideas for outside play on the blog before—like this squeegee activity and washable outdoor chalk paint. But I’ve got a new fun DIY to share: an outdoor sensory wall!
Sensory play is fun, but it’s even better when you can enjoy a little sunshine and fresh air. Today, I’ll be covering all the important need-to-know information about sensory walls—such as what they are, the types of tools you may need, and a few ways to get creative with them. Let’s get started!
How To Make An Outdoor Sensory Wall: Creative Backyard DIY
You may be familiar with sensory tables and sensory bins, but sensory walls can feel a little like uncharted territory. Trust me, it’s not as overwhelming as it may sound! You don’t need fancy tools, expensive equipment, or even a ton of room—just a little bit of patience and creativity.
Before we dive into the steps and fun ideas, let’s first discuss what a sensory wall is. Understanding how developmentally beneficial they are will help you appreciate them on a whole new level. As soon as you’re finished reading this post, you can consider yourself a DIY sensory wall pro!
What Is A Sensory Wall?
If you’re completely new to the sensory world, you may be asking: What is sensory play, and why is it important? So, let’s talk about it!
A sensory wall (also known as a sensory board) is a hands-on, interactive space designed to engage children’s senses— specifically tactile, visual, and auditory senses. These walls are often filled with various materials that encourage young children to explore different textures, shapes, colors, and movements.
But the best part? You can use anything—really! It’s an easy and exciting way to turn everyday household items into open-ended invitations to play. Since everything is mounted to a wall or vertical surface, each object stays secure and easy for little hands to engage with.
And, would you believe me if I told you that sensory exploration is just the beginning of the long list of benefits? Sensory walls can foster language skills, enhance cognitive development, and strengthen motor skills. Remember, play is one of the best ways children learn and grow. That means immersive activities like this support development without little ones even realizing it!
Sensory walls aren’t just fun projects—they’re meaningful tools for young children’s growth! There is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to interact with sensory walls. No matter your kid’s age or ability, this is an activity everyone can enjoy!
How To Make A Sensory Wall Outdoors
I’ll go over different sensory wall ideas in a little bit. Until then, the list below contains materials you can incorporate into your outdoor sensory wall to get you started. The overall goal is to create a space that’s full of texture, sound, color, and fun!
Materials:
Wooden pallet, bulletin board, cardboard, pegboard, or large pieces of fabric/felt
Velvet, cotton, silk, wool, fleece, leather, fur
Grass, leaves, pinecones, seashells, stones
Sponges, tissue paper, pom poms, sensory sequins, feathers, wind spinners
Spoons, small pans, muffin tins
Suncatchers, acrylic mirrors, colored cellophane, old Christmas lights
And, don’t forget you can secure items with things like zip ties, glue, or velcro.
Instructions:
Step 1: Choose your location. Pick a spot in your yard that’s shaded or gets gentle sunlight. Then, find a suitable location to place or mount the foundation of your board.
Step 2: Prepare your base. If you’re using a wooden pallet or bulletin board, ensure that it’s clean and smooth. For any rough areas, sand them down so they’re safe and ready for play.
Step 3: Gather and plan your items. Figure out which theme you want to go with and pick your objects accordingly. Try to include a blend of textures, sounds, colors, and movements.
Step 4: Attach the objects. Make sure that you properly secure each object—especially if they’re small and pose a choking hazard. Remember to always keep your hawk eyes out nonetheless!
Step 5: Test it out! Once everything is set up, allow your children to explore. Watch how they interact with the objects and adjust as needed.
The fun part of this activity is its versatility. You can customize each wall to suit your child’s needs and interests. Searching for some inspiration? Here are a few outdoor sensory wall ideas!
Outdoor Sensory Wall Ideas
Rhythm Zone Sensory Wall: Create a section on your sensory wall full of sound-making objects. This can be metal spoons, old pans, wind chimes, or small xylophone bars. Kids can use their hands or wooden utensils to interact with each object and make noise. This wall is great for both auditory stimulation and exploration!
Texture Board Sensory Wall: This wall is all about textures. So, get creative and have fun with different materials! You can use artificial grass, pom-poms, sponges, different types of fabric—whatever you find lying around the house. It’s a fantastic opportunity for little ones who love to touch and explore.
Natural Finds Sensory Wall: Attach small outdoor-safe containers to your sensory wall. Fill each container with different natural items, like pinecones, leaves, shells, and stones. This allows kids to connect to nature while encouraging observation and storytelling!
Color and Light Sensory Wall: Color plays a significant role in imagination and sensory exploration. Save space on your sensory wall to fill with colorful cellophane, Christmas (or fairy) lights, plastic mirrors, and reflective suncatchers. This is an interactive way to show kids how sunlight can interact with different colors and objects.
Waterfall Sensory Wall: This is a fun one for those hot summer days! Attach funnels, tubes, and plastic bottles to your sensory wall. Fill a watering can with water and let your kid explore the different ways water moves through each object.
Outdoor sensory walls are the play upgrade you didn’t know you needed!
Just when you thought you ran out of engaging activities, sensory play opens up a world of new opportunities. That’s the best part about it! Sensory walls aren’t fantastic for taking the play outdoors, either. They’re developmentally beneficial, easy to set up, versatile in design, and loads of fun. You can find summer sensory play ideas here for more outdoor play!
For more fun and imaginative independent play, pre-order our new book, Playful by Design! It’s a guide to transforming your home into a place of creativity and connection, igniting kids’ imagination, and fostering independence.
Check out the Mothercould blog for more engaging sensory play recipes! And, for more in-depth tutorials, helpful cleaning tips, and exciting activity packs, download the Mothercould in Your Pocket resource.