This summer, we shared six incredible weeks of activities for children with Additional Learning Needs (ALN). From messy play, horse haven and physical fun to music, Crocodile Rock, and celebrations through our parent progress sessions, every week was packed with opportunities to learn, explore, and most importantly — have fun.
Together, we created a summer where children could thrive, families felt supported, and donors saw their generosity make a real difference.
Highlights By Week
Week 1: Parent Progress Sessions – overview of Communication aids to support our children’s “voice”, sensory curriculum, physical development and the power of play.
Week 2: Jess’ Horse Haven – A fantastic structured farm experience providing therapy, communication opportunities, sensory support, and confidence-building which gave our children the chance to shine, grow, and connect.
Week 3: National Playday – Nature walks, bug hunts & sensory garden encouraged active play.
Week 4: Physical Funday Hubberston Park – An amazing day that wasn’t just about adaptations being made to promote Inclusive physical play. We created opportunities where every child was valued, they thrived, connected with our community and had fun!
Week 5: Roots & Rhythms VC Gallery – A superb day of curiosity, creativity and sensory rich experiences through the power of Music, Art and Nature. A great collaboration between SNAP, VC Gallery and Bongo Clive!
Week 6: My senses & me – Bespoke training for staff in upskilling awareness & resources of how to best support children with visual impairment, tailoring weekly activities within our “In the moment” planning.
Impact in Numbers
|
Families/Children |
45 |
|
Playgroup sessions |
10 |
|
Parent progress sessions |
10 |
|
Roots & Rhythms |
19 |
|
Jess Horse Haven |
22 |
|
Crocodile Rock |
20+ |
|
Physical Fun day |
28 |
|
Hours Outdoors |
21 |
|
National Playday |
7 |
|
Parents reporting enjoyment |
100% |
Voices from Families
“SNAP has given me knowledge, time & support. Also an opportunity to make friends who are in the same situation as me”
“SNAP is priceless and one of the best things to happen to P & me!”
“Through SNAP we have made lifelong friendships- we all understand what each other is going through and how hard it can be
”We are so grateful to SNAP – not only the amazing care and support they have given, but also for the wonderful friends & families we’ve found through them! The bonds we have made will truly be lifelong and I feel lucky that my son and I have so much love & friendship around us”
“This was the first time my daughter has joined in a group activity — so proud of her.”
A Message to Our Donors
Your donations made this summer possible. From resources and sensory equipment to training staff and safe spaces, every pound went directly into creating joyful, meaningful experiences for children with ALN.
Looking Ahead
The success of this summer shows what’s possible when families, staff, external agencies, our community, and donors come together. We look forward to launching our song in the coming weeks put together through the “Crocodile Rock” and we are already planning seasonal activity programmes for autumn and winter — and with your continued support, we can reach even more children.
With heartfelt thanks,
The team at SNAP Specialist Play
