BROAD BUCKLER FERN

​​​​​

An 'no-objects required' sensory story told through human and nature-made sounds, gentle touch and guided movement.

​

Begin in a quiet spot. Invite the person to settle and notice the sounds and movement around them.

 

The Fern Sleeps in Winter

 

Say :  “When the fern is sleeping for the Winter, it hides under the cold soil and frost.”

 

Do : Make a clenched fist to show how the fern curls up. If appropriate, help the person make a soft curl with their hand, or let them feel the shape of your fist.

 

The Fern Wakes in Spring

 

Say :  “When the warm sunshine comes, the fern begins to wake.  Slowly… very slowly… it uncurls.”

 

Do : Slowly uncurl your fist. Support the person to uncurl their fingers or open their hand if they enjoy this movement, or let them feel your fist uncurling.

 

The Fern Dances in the Breeze

 

Say :  “The fern stretches its fronds… and dances in the breeze.”

 

Do : Wiggle your fingers or gently wave your hands or arms. Encourage the person to join in however they can by moving fingers, moving hands, holding hands together and moving arms, or simply watching.

 

The Fern’s Secret

 

Say :  “But the fern has a secret…its rustling leaves can be a hiding place for fairy folk.”

 

Do : Rub your hands together softly to make a rustling sound.  Let the person listen for a while, feel the vibration or gently guide their hands if suitable.

 

Listening for Fairies

 

Say quietly :  “If we’re very quiet… shhh…”

 

Do : Make a gentle “shhh” sound together. Pause to listen to the natural sounds around you.

 

Say :  “Sometimes you might hear tiny voices…laughter like birdsong…a whisper in the wind.”

 

Do :  Make a soft whistle or gentle blowing sound.  Let the person feel the movement of air if they enjoy it.

​

The Fairies’ Gift

 

Say :  “The fairies give a special gift…a warm feeling deep inside…a feeling of being seen and cared for.”

 

Do :  Place a hand on your heart.  Support the person to place a hand on their chest, or gently rest your hand on theirs so they feel warmth and comfort.

​

To close this activity, you could suggest finding a gift to leave for the fairies.  They are known to collect pine cones and feathers, and love to make clothes from leaves.  Perhaps pop a leaf or two near the Fern and take a moment together to say thank you.