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Unlocking Potential through Play
The Thames Valley Adventure Playground IMAGINE... if every family outing meant leaving out a member of your family, because it is just impossible to do it together and, when you do eventually brave the local playground, people stare at you, or ignore you, or keep their children at a 'safe' distance, just in case. Imagine if most of the play equipment is not accessible or suitable, and all your child can do is watch the other children playing on it, wishing... Families of children with special needs can't easily enjoy the opportunities for fun and recreation which most families take for granted. Going to the local park can be a distressing and fraught experience. Going to the leisure centre can be like a military operation. Bowling - difficult! Cinema - forget it! Out for a birthday meal - afraid not!
NOW IMAGINE... a place where the entire family, whatever their
individual needs, can spend a whole day of fun, playing and laughing
together - not just a great day out, but an important part of the family
coping mechanism - a place where everyone is accepted, everyone is equally
valued and everyone has the chance to join in and play, regardless of
their abilities; a place where you can relax, meet other parents
'in the same boat', and recharge the batteries; a place where
your children are supported, safe and enjoying themselves; a place
where they can learn important life skills and make friends... You are
imagining the Thames Valley Adventure Playground.
Over 13,600 visits to the Playground are made each year by children and adults with all types
of special need. They continue to visit from across the Thames Valley
and beyond, as there are few places where they can have the freedom to
play and be themselves. That the Playground is such an important part of
the lives of so many is extraordinary. That, as we celebrate our 30th
birthday, we are still able to provide them with the stimulating and
ever-changing environment which is so enjoyed, and of such benefit, is
down to the amazing support of the local community.
So that people can experience the Playground for themselves, we now hold Integrated Playdays
every Saturday from 10.00-3.30 for accompanied children under 12 with no
special need. Among our birthday fundraising events, we will be holding
our Sponsored Walk on 19th May - with lovely 5- and 10-mile walks along
the Thames and Jubilee Rivers. On 7th July our Patron, Sir Terry Wogan,
will be sharing his experiences during an Audience at the Playground (and
there'll be tea, too!) and our President, Mr Tim Brooke-Taylor, will be
cutting the official birthday cake at our Birthday Fun Day on 11th August.
If you want to find out more about these and other events call us
on 01628 628051 or visit our website www.tvap.co.uk
Nicky Hutchinson