Looking for some new activity ideas to keep your family busy over half-term?
Look no further, as we’ve rounded up a few options for families with children and young people who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to enjoy together!
From an autumnal wonderland to an immersive show in your living room, there are many ways for families who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to have a fun filled day both in the crisp Autumn air and from the comfort of their couch!
While many of the local venues have safely reopened with new measures in place, it’s best to check directly with the provider, venue or organisation to make sure they are still able to offer the half-term activity for you and your family.
For up-to-date information on activity resources and ideas, follow our ISEND Facebook page at @ISENDEastSussex and our @eastsussexigo page. You can also find more ideas and resources on our Local Offer page.
Five activity ideas for SEND families
Groombridge Place Pumpkin Grotto – Get lost in an autumnal wonderland
Get into the autumnal spirit at Groombridge Place where you can pick a pumpkin and say hello to Bo Patch the pony, too! The secret garden will be turned into a “magical pumpkin grotto” for half-term visitors to enjoy along with other various activities at the estate. Book ahead online and find out more on the Groombridge Place’s website.
Head2Head Sensory Theatre – Grab your favourite snack and cosy up for a show at home
Enjoy a multi-sensory theatre experience, which is great for all audience members, from the comfort of your living room with Head2Head Sensory Theatre over half-term. You can join them for “Snacks & Chats” where they will be hosting 3 different kinds of shows for families to interact with from home or check out their interactive video with Makaton signing, activities, a widget storyline and more! To find out more, see Head2Head Theatre’s website for all the information.
Urban Jump Trampoline Park – Shake off the rainy-day wiggles
Whether you need to get those rainy-day wiggles out or you want to do something a bit more active, take a trip to Urban Jump Trampoline Park in Heathfield. The trampoline park has safely reopened and has a range of fun areas to bounce and play on, find out more on how to book a visit on the Urban Jump Trampoline Park website.
View the park’s i-go offer.
Tenpin – Knock out the afternoon with a family game of bowling
Take a visit to Tenpin for a fun afternoon or evening of bowling, food and drink! They’re an i-go provider and have a special October offer, too! Find out more about their deals and how you can book ahead on Tenpin’s website.
View Tenpin’s i-go offer.
Defiant Sports – Get active on the field or at home
Enjoy some exercise with the various socially distanced sports clubs and activities they have on offer or try out some of their exercise videos from the comfort of your couch!
The sports club is excited to offer opportunities to all and are open for families to channel their sportiness over half-term. For updates and information see the sports club’s website or follow them on Facebook at @DefiantSports.
Defiant Sports are also a new i-go provider. Learn more about the sports club’s i-go offer.
Make sure to keep an eye out on our Facebook pages @ISENDEastSussex, @eastsussexigo page and our Local Offer page for more resources.
Check out tips and advice from National Autistic Society on wearing a face covering or mask.
Learn more about who is exempt from face coverings and download a free badge.
By Danielle Quijada
