Example of a sensory tennis session plan
For each part of the session, consider:
- Why is this part of the session important?
- How are you going to deliver this activity in a way that is suitable for someone with complex disabilities?
- What benefits will participants gain from completing these activities?
Coin Toss
- This activity signals the start of the sensory tennis session.
- It could be an actual coin toss, or you could create your own version.
Warm Up (5 minutes)
- The aim of a warm up is to allow participants to get used to their surroundings, prepare for the activities to come and start to raise their pulse
- Activities could including mapping the space and equipment and gradually introducing movement
- Participants will improve their spatial and body awareness, social and communication skills, and become more independent
Read the full instructions for sensory tennis Warm Up activities.
Body and Ball (10 minutes)
- In this part of the session, participants get used to working with a ball, and using fine motor skills.
- Activities include gripping and releasing balls of different textures at different heights, and bouncing balls to a partner.
- Build up strength, hand-eye coordination and awareness of different parts of the body.
Find the full instructions for our Body and Ball activities.
Racket and Ball (10 minutes)
- This set of activities introduces rackets and tennis stroke movements.
- Try pushing a ball along the floor with your hand or racket, and using moves like a ‘high five’ action for a volley.
- Develop spatial awareness, tracking a moving ball with eyes, arm/wrist strength and working with a partner.
Find the full instructions for our Racket and Ball activities.
Celebration (10 minutes)
- In this part of the session, we celebrate our achievements!
- It’s all about building confidence, improving communication and sharing our success with others.
Handshake
- This activity signals the end of the sensory tennis session.
- It could be an actual handshake, or you could create your own version.
Want to see more examples?
Visit the LUSU Sports website for a full six week session plan and further support and resources.
Get in touch
Contact [email protected] if you’d like further support, or if you’d like us to send you a free physical copy of this resource. We’d also love to hear about how your sensory tennis sessions are going!
