Compassionate child-led learning through play
Case study: Freddie
When Freddie attended his first Stay and Play session, we were initially very nervous and expected him to turn around and refuse to go in. He is autistic and becomes very anxious and worried about social situations and unfamiliar people. However, the team were gently welcoming and already knew which type of toys he liked, so could prepare in advance. He had a wonderful time and we could relax.
We always struggle to find somewhere to go on a weekend
Having an autistic child who is out of normal school routine but desperately wants to go somewhere fun at the weekend is a challenge.
My son Freddie (8) attends his local primary school, but has a 1:1 support each day. His daily routine is very fixed, and he thrives on this. He always needs to have a plan in his head before we go anywhere, And as long as he has his plan, and we have run through each stage about what is happening, this really helps to alliviate his worry. Freddie needs to have a sense of control, as he can suffer with quite extensive sensory overload.
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Preparation is key for my son!
Before we took Freddie to the session, we already knew after speaking to the team, that there would be an array of cars for him to play with. Therefore, the team were able to prepare for Freddie's arrival, AND we were able to talk to him about how the afternoon would pan out and what he could do as his first activity. The cars were an instant hit, and it built up trust with Freddie - so he understood that the team were here to help him have a lovely time!
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The hall was great, with both indoor and outdoor activties
Upon arrival there was plenty of parking which was great - and it's only a short walk across the car park to the front door of the hall. The team had already prepared the outside area, with lots of inviting equipment such as a slide, small scooters, hoops, balls - but also a box of books and space to read quietly should you like to. Freddie wanted to explore outside first, which is what he would normally do at school (he arrives and goes outside to work off some nervous energy) and after a look around, we took him inside to find the cars.
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Normally Freddie likes to wear ear defenders but we were surprised that he said he didn't feel he wanted to wear them! That was a sign he felt comfortable and not overwhelmed. He played with the cars and various other tuff-tray displays which were out for the children - before going back outside again to play on the scooters.
He asked when he could go again!
After a longer time outside, and an opportunity for me to get a drink and watch him, he decided he had seen all he would like to see and asked to go home. It was a success! During the car journey home he asked when he could go again!
Written by Freddie's Mum