Cruinniú na nÓg: Woodland stay and play for neurodivergent children

Step into the woodland for a calm, creative Stay & Play session designed for neurodivergent children and their families.

This is not a busy or structured event. Instead, it’s a gentle, welcoming space where children can explore, create and move at their own pace, supported by nature.

We’ll have a range of natural materials available for open-ended creativity — clay, wool, sticks, leaves and more. Children might build dens, create nature art, weave, imagine or simply enjoy being in the forest.

The woodland environment offers space for:

• sensory regulation
• movement and freedom
• quiet observation
• imaginative play

To support accessibility, the session includes:

• small group size (max 12 children)
• hammocks for regulation
• quiet hideaway spaces (with camo nets)
• visual supports and a social story (shared in advance)
• a “stay & play” format where parents/carers remain on site

This is a low-pressure, inclusive environment — children are free to engage as much or as little as they like.

Ideal for children who may feel overwhelmed in large or busy events.