Fun at home
Our residents take part in many activities of their choosing each day… one of Harry’s particular favourite inside activities, is craft. He enjoys painting and using different everyday items to create pictures that he then hangs on his bedroom wall.
Art therapy provides a great way for individuals with autism to express themselves. Using various materials and tools also helps develop motor skills, just as Harry is doing 😊
Here Harry is using a basic cardboard inner tube to print with. It has been cut to create points but leaves a “handle” for easy grip.
Stephen made a start on writing his Christmas cards. Find out how we support our residents in the run up to the festive season.
Sammy spent an afternoon baking with Vivian in the kitchen of number 17. Cooking is another excellent way to develop fine motor skills – pouring, measuring, mixing… all help improve coordination. The textures of the ingredients along with the finished product itself – its touch, taste and smell – also provide a multi-sensory experience… and above all, Vivian ensures that Sammy is having fun.
Adam was pleased to receive a new hat among the gifts from family members. He loves being outside and going for a walk with his Costa, whatever the weather, so the woolly hat was ideal – just perfect for this cold spell!
Out and about
It was another busy month for residents! Sam visited an old haunt, Windmill café and Harry went to see Moana 2 at the cinema with Amanda and Joe. Meanwhile, Sammy went to Wetherspoons with Aravindh for a spot of lunch.
Sammy has also been swimming, at The Blue Lagoon warm water centre in Eastbourne. The pools here are designed to feel just like a private home swimming pool, offering a safe space for our residents to enjoy… and the water is really warm, around 33-34 degrees, making a fantastic all-round experience!
Swimming provides adults with autism and learning disabilities a great way of improving muscular strength and coordination. It also promotes a sense of calm, helping residents focus on their breath and strokes. All the noise of the outside world is removed in the peaceful solitude of the ‘private’ pool.
The National Autistic Society has an interesting case study on teaching autistic people to swim – you can read it here.
As you can see, it’s been another jam-packed month at Jemini, and Christmas is just around the corner… we’re looking forward to seeing what our residents get up to in December!