Ignite curiosity and calm big feelings with our Tornado Lesson Pack for SEND Preschoolers — a playful, sensory-rich way to explore the science of storms.
Created with the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach, this pack helps children turn their fascination with tornadoes into movement, creativity, and learning.
What You Get:
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6 Outdoor-Friendly Lesson Plans – including rope tornado spirals, bamboo stick storm shelters, nature sound makers, and more.
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SEND-Friendly Objectives – support communication, sensory regulation, and emotional expression.
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Eco-Approach Resources – simple tools like ropes, bamboo sticks, chalk, cones, and clay.
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Step-by-Step Guidance – easy to follow for teachers, forest school leaders, and parents.
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Reflective Tasks – help children share feelings and process what they’ve learned.
Perfect for preschool settings, forest school sessions, home education, or SEND support groups.
🌪 Taking Tornadoes Outdoors – Parent & Educator Guide
Taking learning outside turns “tornado obsession” into rich, memorable play. Here’s how to make storms exciting and educational for toddlers and preschoolers:
1. Spiral Walks
Lay a rope in a spiral. Encourage children to follow the path, spinning gently like a tornado. Count the steps as they move to build maths skills.
2. Bamboo Stick Storm Shelters
Work together to make a small den or frame from bamboo sticks. Talk about why people need safe places during storms.
3. Wind Play
Wave short ropes or scarves on a breezy day. Compare gentle breezes with “stormy winds.”
4. Nature Sound Makers
Collect leaves, twigs, and stones. Shake, tap, and rustle them to make your own storm soundtrack.
5. Clay Storm Faces
Use clay to make happy storms, wild storms, and calm storms. A great way to talk about emotions.
6. Calm After the Storm
After running and spinning like a tornado, lie quietly on the ground and listen to the world around you.
💡 Why Outdoor Tornado Play Works
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Sensory integration: Combines movement, sound, and touch for deeper learning
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Self-regulation practice: High-energy play followed by calming moments
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Language growth: Learn weather words and emotional vocabulary
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Physical skills: Improves coordination, balance, and strength
🔗 Share & Support Outdoor Learning
We want this resource to inspire as many educators and parents as possible — and you can help!
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Share this page with your parent group, school staffroom, or teacher community.
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Link back to us from your blog or social post to help others find it.
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Join the conversation: Tag us on social media with your storm play photos and activities (with permission).
Suggested text for sharing:
“Looking for sensory-friendly tornado activities for toddlers and preschoolers? Check out this outdoor lesson pack inspired by the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach: https://themuddypuddleteacher.co.uk/tornado-lesson-p…end-preschoolers/
