Sensory Friendly Fall Activities
Kids with sensory issues can have a hard time around this time of year. Costumes, candy, pumpkin patches, and Halloween fun might be too much for them if parents aren’t prepared ahead of time. Even kids without sensory issues might struggle! The Wilson Family Farm understands this, and they provide so much information about the sensory experiences on their farms and how they can help make it a fun time for everyone. They even have great activities for our proprioception, and adults can benefit, too.
What is proprioception?
Your body’s ability to sense its own position and movements is proprioception. It’s a subconscious process, so you aren’t entirely aware of it. This sense is critical for kinesthesia, or generating body movement and using other physical skills. This incredible and complicated interaction in the body makes small things possible, such as opening a can of soda or using utensils, and it also makes big things possible, such as yoga, running, gymnastics, and all sorts of other big movements. Autism, ataxia, sensory processing disorders, and brain injuries impact this complex process and cause dizziness, balance issues, uncoordinated movements, and doing too much or too little to perform certain actions. Engaging in activities that stretch and use the muscles and brain power associated with proprioception can help strengthen that sense and improve some of these symptoms.
How does going to a farm help with this?
There are so many low-impact and safe activities that help with improving this sensory process. Pumping water in the handmade water racers, the natural squeeze of the barrel rides, being present in the hayrides by sitting side by side with other people, picking up pumpkins, pulling the wagons, and pushing the wheelbarrows full of pumpkins. These activities that some people may take for granted allow those with poor proprioception to practice using the right pressure and force, get more comfortable with their body and how it takes up space, and even practice balance as they push wheelbarrows. On top of that, they can have such a wonderful time with animals, good food, a beautiful landscape, and so many opportunities to try new things that might seem a little off putting for someone with sensory issues. It’s just a great chance to try new things in a safe and fun environment.
What are some other things you can expect at the Wilson Family Farm?
TTS Founder Leiah’s adorable children with Wilson Family Farm owner Lynn Wilson
So many sights to see!! Plucky chickens, gorgeous and blooming sunflowers, old trees rustling in the autumn breeze, old, classic barns, delightful and fun scarecrows, and of course, plump, ripe, huge, amazing PUMPKINS! Even better, you can see children and their families smiling and enjoying the simplicity of fall without screens! Beautiful wild flowers, tasteful fall decorations, and the peace and serenity of farm life serve as a feast for the eyes.
The nutty and buttery scent of kettle corn mixes wonderfully with the warm and spicy smell of apple cider and pumpkin bread. Sweet and tart homemade lemonade delights those who want something cold and refreshing. These smells and tastes together really plunge you into the autumn mood.
Most importantly, there are so many new and good feels for you to experience! Face painting, bubbles, corn baths (don’t worry, it’s not bathing in corn, it’s a method for preserving and canning corn), barrel rides, hayrides, and if you’re lucky, it’ll be a windy day so you feel it in your air, on your face, and feel it amplifying all the good smells.
Sounds like a perfect family day! How can we prepare our kiddos?
You can bring in your own food and drinks which is a huge plus for those who really need their safe foods. There is plenty of shade, picnic tables, and spaces for taking a little break if necessary. There is a great bathroom, and the farm is mostly very accessible. Those with physical handicaps might have some difficulty moving around and visiting everything, but you can definitely give the farm a call and ask how they can help. Admission for the pumpkin patch and other activities is $13 per person. They do not allow pets, but fully certified service dogs are welcome!
They have great space, so it doesn’t feel overcrowded or too loud. The noise level is pretty manageable, and you’ll mostly hear other children, benders, some honking, a gator motor, and the popcorn popping. An airplane occasionally flies over, so be aware of that if it may startle you or someone in your group with sensory issues.
Take a trip to the Wilson Family Farm and make memories with your family that will also be sensory-friendly and just a downright good time. They are located at 4809 Byrd Lane, College Grove, TN 37046. You can visit their website by clicking here, and if you have more questions about your visit, you can call them at 615-202-4805 or email them at thewilsonfamilyfarm1893@gmail.com.
