So, why is it that the moment things get busy, the first thing I drop is my blog? Yet I’m actually really enjoying trying to write a blog and how I can use it to develop my skills in my work…..so I’m going to try and focus on the blog…….how many times have you heard that? Fair play, but I’m going to try…….

So this summer holiday I have been busy supporting children and adults with learning disabilities to access the community and enjoy the break from school (and to give their families much needed respite).

SENSORY - I have been exploring the senses through all the situations we have accessed; from the farm, to home to the park. Lots of textures, smells and sounds have been explored…..the manure at the farm certainly got a reaction!

RELAXATION - I am really keen to focus on wellbeing for the individuals I support as well as their families. So whilst I’m out and about I hope the family relax and enjoy their time together without distraction and worry. Meanwhile I am also keen to promote a sense of calm in each of the people I support. It’s great to have fun and be busy and boisterous but the ability to calm and enjoy what is around is also an essential part of growing up and preparing for adulthood. We have been out for lunch, enjoyed a cuppa and had a chat, sat people watching at Willen Lake and watched TV after a busy day.

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK BOWLING - well, this was a roaring success. Initially a risk (but if you don’t try new things you’ll never know). We went to Go Bowling in Dunstable and played a game of bowling in the dark with disco music, a disco ball and glow in the dark balls, pins and lanes. This was such fun and definitely to be repeated! The sensory experience enabled the young person to focus on the game and ‘shut out’ everything else. Plus we had hot dog, chips and a slush drink afterwards :-)

BAKING AND TREATS - Baking is such an amazing sensory experience; from exploring the ingredients to the smell of it cooking, to (the best bit) eating it. We have also been to have ice-cream at various places and loved every mouthful. Now prepare yourself as I’m going to sound very old……but…….can you believe how much a magnum ice-cream is nowadays??!! We paid £2.50 at Willen Lake today and this seems to be average. Like I said, I’m sounding very old…….and son’t get me started on the cans of drink for £1.50. LOL

OUTSIDE FUN - We had a great time at Dunstable Downs (one of my favourite places) kite flying in the extreme wind. The kite I use does not have any plastic poles in it so if it comes down it will not hurt anyone……we can sometimes be very ‘enthusiastic’ so this is a great ‘top tip’. It was so lovely seeing children and adults at the Downs flying kites, having picnics and being happy together. It warmed my heart. Wile Lake has been another great place to visit. The train was a success (even though the bench seats do cause a numb bum) and only cost £2.00 a person. There are great outside gym equipment there too which we may not have used correctly but certainly enjoyed.

I won’t go one anymore as I know I am the Queen of Waffle but it’s fair to say I’m loving the summer holidays and having a great time. When you love your job it’s not like work :-)

Off to the seaside tomorrow….in the rain……………