Let's go out… to the ice hockey
Let's go on a sensory journey to see an ice hockey game. Watch as the ice hockey players glide across the ice. Listen to the drums and chants of the crowd. Will you join in with the song?
Time to take a seat as the players are ready for a face off for the start of the ice hockey game.
Make your journey more sensory. Try using any of these items while watching. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything or there are things you don’t want to include. Make your sensory journey one you will enjoy.
- Say hello: Look at yourself in a mirror.
- Touch: Ice or ice packs.
- Smell: A cold ice chiller.
- Taste: Popcorn or a snack you would like to eat.
- See: Black out material, multi coloured lighting, torches, star night lights.
- Sound: Cheer noises, music.
Tickets at the ready
We are off to see ice hockey, I cannot wait.
I have never been before but I’m sure it will be great.
Before we take our seats after entering the stands,
We say hello to the stewards and get our tickets scanned.
Let’s get active
- Look at pictures of security and event stewards for your preferred venue. These people are here to help you if you are worried or upset
- Make some tickets for scanning
- Roleplay the conversations that will take place i.e. ‘you are in door 17, row T, seat 34’.
There are people there to help you
There are lots of people crammed into this space,
I just want to go at my own pace.
There’s no need to panic and no need to rush,
If you’re worried or upset, just ask for help, it’s no fuss.
Let’s get active
- Look at pictures of security. Remember these people are here to help you if you are worried, upset or become lost. Some venues will have breakout area or quiet zones, if you need them.
- Listen to recordings of crowd sounds from busy environments.
- Make a sensory bag – what would I pack to help me? Maybe some ear defenders or your favourite toy.
The roar of the crowd
I go to the door to take my seat,
Where I’ll clap my hands and stomp my feet.
Just be prepared, it can get a little a little loud,
From the slap of the puck to the roar of the crowd.
Let’s get active
- Now is the time to cheer and get loud. What do they prefer to do? Cheer or clap?
- Can you create a new chant for your favourite sports team?
- Maybe you could create a poster for the match
- Watch some videos of crowds from different sports around the world
The lights have gone out but don't worry, it's part of the show
The lights have gone out, I can’t really see.
But I’m safe sitting with my friends and family.
There are videos, and flames, then a light show.
Now the puck is on the ice, the whistle sounds, LET’S GO!
Let’s get active
- Close the curtains or blinds
- Use torches or fairy lights to recreate the lights of an ice hockey match
- Build anticipation and excitement with crowd sounds and chants
The drums in the crowd bang loud
Across the arena, I can hear drums,
That’s the fan zone and it sure looks like fun.
They wave flags, clap and play songs.
It’s got a good beat; I think I’ll sing along.
Let’s get active
- Play a drum – Many of the hockey season ticket holders bring drums and have their own individual songs and chants.
- Hold and wave balloons that have your teams colours.
- Practice some of your local team’s chants.
It's cold down on the ice
The rink is large, red, blue and white
With the players zooming round, it is really quite the sight.
They tackle, they jostle and pass the puck with ease,
If I played on ice, I am sure I would freeze.
Let’s get active
- Fill a tray with water and leave in the freezer over night
- Put your toy figurines on the ice to play a game of ice hockey
- Use some mark making tools to scratch the ice like the blades do
What a goal!
The puck hits the net, for our teams first score.
The crowd is ecstatic, I hope there’ll be more.
The airhorn blows, then music soon plays.
There’s dancing and whooping, I could party for days.
Let’s get active
- Use buttons on an ice sheet as a pretend puck
- Make the sound of an airhorn – or listen to a recording
- Each hockey team has their own goal scoring songs – listen online
- Visit your local amusements to use their air hockey table
Hear the whistle blow
The final whistle blows and whether we’ve lost or won,
The players worked hard and I had lots of fun.
Our team is the best, and to show my support,
I’ll design my own fan poster for my favourite sport.
I’ll use glitter, I’ll use paints, I’ll use sparkles and flare.
I’ll wave it proudly next game. I hope to see you there!
Let’s get active
- Use art supplies to make a fan poster for your favourite sports team.
- Create a brand new team logo.
- What other things could you make to show your support?
Where next?
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