Sitting Outside Together
Spend time outside together — or near a window if going outside is not possible. The aim is simply to be present in a different environment: to notice the light, the air, the sounds and the small details of the natural world.
Best Time
Morning or early afternoon on a mild day. Avoid very hot, cold or wet conditions.
Duration
10–30 minutes
Setting
Garden, patio, balcony or near a window
What You'll Need
- A comfortable outdoor chair or blanket
- Appropriate clothing for the weather
- A warm drink if welcome
Preparation
- Check the weather and ensure the person is dressed appropriately
- Choose a spot that is sheltered, comfortable and not too noisy
- Have a warm drink ready if the person would enjoy one
How to Do It
- 1Invite the person to come outside with you — or to sit near a window if going outside is not possible
- 2Settle them comfortably and sit alongside them
- 3Allow silence — there is no need to fill every moment with conversation
- 4Gently draw attention to things you can see or hear: 'Look at that bird' or 'Can you feel the sun?'
- 5Follow the person's lead — if they want to talk, listen; if they are quiet, be present
- 6Return inside when the person seems ready or when the weather changes
Adapt It
- For someone who cannot go outside: sit near an open window or in a conservatory
- For someone who is cold easily: ensure they are well wrapped and limit the time outside
- For someone who is restless: bring something to hold or look at — a flower, a leaf, a smooth stone
- For someone who is very alert: name what you can see and hear together
What to Notice
Observe verbal and non-verbal responses — attention, movement, conversation, recognition, relaxation, curiosity, withdrawal, choice, initiation or other individual responses.
- Does the person seem more relaxed outside than indoors?
- Do they notice or comment on things in the environment?
- Do they seem to enjoy the light, the air or the sounds?
- Do they talk about memories connected to being outside?
- Do they seem more settled or more content after the activity?
PMEE Reflection
These questions are not about scoring whether the activity was successful. They are about noticing and retaining what you observed about this person's individual response.
- 1What seemed to matter to this person?
- 2What response did I notice?
- 3What could I remember and use next time?
Avoid assuming that smiling, participating or completing an activity automatically means it was meaningful. Equally, do not assume that someone who cannot actively participate has not engaged with the experience.