This summer, we’ve enjoyed a few outings to the local funfairs with the residents with autism we support. The weather has been so lovely, we’ve all made the most of it!
A trip to the funfair can be a wonderful experience, but sometimes, for adults with autism and learning disabilities, it can feel overwhelming – the noise, the crowds, flashing lights… that’s why we’re there every step of the way to help our residents to create happy experiences.
A quacking good time!
Who knew hooking a duck could offer so many benefits on top of the sheer amount of enjoyment it gives?
From developing hand-eye coordination and concentration to practising patience, decision-making and communication, this simple fairground game offers plenty of opportunities to build everyday skills.
And, of course, there’s the excitement of catching a duck and winning a prize! Every attempt is an opportunity to learn, grow and build confidence, with support and encouragement along the way… and Stephen was as pleased as punch with his prize!
Bump, laugh, learn… repeat!
As the saying goes, every day is a school day, and there’s always a learning opportunity to be had. Even queuing helps our residents to learn how to take turns and to wait. It helps to develop patience and to learn to respect personal space… but queuing can be boring!.. unless you’re with Charley! She always makes it fun – as you can see, doing a little in line conga with Michael and Stephen!
The reward for queuing though is well worth the wait – the dodgems are at the end of the line!
And wow, how much do our residents love the bumper cars?! Whether they’re taking the wheel on their own or with support, it’s their chance to steer, bump and laugh together, all while learning!
Driving helps develop coordination, and even the bumps help our residents experience and adapt to different sensations!
There’s so much more going on than just having fun! The feel of the steering wheel, the movement of the dodgem, the sounds of the fairground, the flashing lights and the excitement all around engage different senses.
These experiences can support sensory awareness, hand-eye coordination, motor skills and the ability to respond to changing movements and sensations.
Whether steering independently or with support, our residents are learning, exploring and building confidence – all while having fun!
Having the ride of their lives…
And there’s more than dodgems to enjoy! Michael really loves the Twister and Waltzer rides! They’re not just full of thrills and excitement but again offer wonderful sensory learning opportunities as well.
With the spinning movements, changing speeds, music and lights, there’s so much for Michael to experience and explore and with the reassuring presence of Aravindh by his side, nothing is as daunting.
Same time next year?!
The fairs may have come to an end this year, but the memories live on!
Michael can look back at photos of his favourite rides and remember the colours, the noises… and the spinning, while Stephen can look at his hook-a-duck prize and think about the ducks!
Until next year, when there’ll be more adventures to enjoy and memories to make ❤️
