People often ask us why we do what we do, and why our activities are different from other providers. So, as part of our blog series we will focus on each of our activities so we can explain what our aims and objectives of our programme are.
Our activities programme is not just a play scheme or respite service (although parent/carers do have the added bonus of some time away from their caring role!), this means we do not run generic youth clubs with lots of children attending at once, which we recognise are a much needed service but there are already other services offering this. We know through research that skills are best developed when the young people are in a focussed, autism supportive environment doing a task that motivates them, they are already coming in motivated and with lower anxiety as they know what to expect and that makes a much better learning environment! Smaller groups not only suit our young people better in terms of social demands and environmental factors, but allow our team real opportunity to develop peer friendships and work closely with the young people on a 1:1 or 2:1 basis to develop skills in all areas – emotional regulation, communication, social skills and lifeskills.
Let’s take a closer look at one of our activities!
What does a lesson plan for Cooking: Moving On include and what are the benefits?
This class is aimed at those who already have a good knowledge of basic cookery concepts and feel confident in the kitchen (we have a Cookery: Basic Skills class for those just starting out). We encourage the children to eat the food that they have cooked, as we promote social skills through group tasting opportunities. The children will be involved in setting the table, identifying the recipes they wish to go, buying ingredients, budgeting, and tidying up after cooking. The class lasts 1.5 hours, so we often look at more complex recipes, or multiple recipes in one session.
If the young people don’t want to have their food in the class that’s ok too! Through our classes we aim to support the children to achieve three main targets:
• Increased awareness of healthy eating
• Increased independence skills in the kitchen
• Increased tolerance for different taste experiences
And of course teamwork is key!
If you would like more information about the class please contact teri@perthautismsupport.org.uk
