Any mums of SN children out there?

[tallwivglasses]

Hi, local mumsnetters, it doesn't look like people post here very often, but I thought I'd give it a try.

I have an 11 year old son [ASD, LD, ADHD] and I found it very frustrating over the summer that so many children's activities on offer [libraries, arts, museums, etc] were totally unsuitable/innappropriate for a lot of disabled kids.

I've had enough! I pay taxes [admittedly, not much because I'm poor] for local kids to access a range of fantastic activities, and quite rightly so...but where do those with multiple and complex needs fit in?

Is there anything out there?
Have you found an activity where your child's needs are met?
Any horror stories? [I could tell you a few...]

Fancy doing something about it?

Yoohoo, over here

I have seen you on SN boards, didn't know you lived in Newcastle as well.

I have DS2 who has autism and dyspraxia.

Are you a member of the SN toy library? They are fab. They put on trips during the holidays for cheap and they have loads of staff who are on hand to help on the trips. Thy also have a group on at Hadrian school every two weeks during term time.

Hi 5!!! I've noticed you too!

I think we're on the waiting list for toy library. Will chase them up, Didn't know they did trips too. Thanks.

Do you do mainstream activity stuff or keep well-away? [I only do it when I'm feeling brave]

Oh I keep well away after a some nasty encounters at Sure Start when DS2 was a toddler. ast time we went on a SS trip as a family, I more or less got accused of child abuse as I tapped DS2's hand when he had touched something he shouldn't have

Toy ibrary is great, they've had their office closed for a while as Hadrian school been closed for refurb over the summer. Worth chasing up.

The trips are great. I can go on them by myslef and 3 DC and not have to worry about looking after all 3 as there is always someone there to help if I needed it. Last trip was to Beamish and we only paid £3 per person. They put transport on as well. It really is an amazing group to be part of.

Does your DS go to MS or does he go to Thomas Bewick?

I should add we do access SN playschemes, etc. and they're great.

It's just, I dunno, having had a 'normal' daughter who I took to storytelling sessions, arts stuff at the Laing, make something mechanical at the Discovery, plays at Northern Stage, etc [I'm a bit arty...] I just wish there were a few more mainstream activities that he could be included in, where he wasn't hidden away...

Maybe an art exhibition where he was allowed to touch stuff?

TB. I probably know you [but I'm rubbish at names. Also face-recognition. Maybe it's in the genes]

DS2 and his brothers like the water play part of the Discovery. I ike it as well as I don't have to hover over DS2 whie he is there.

I agree though, there isn't much for children with S. DS2 was'nt able to access any of the holiday clubs this summer as none of them were able to supply the 1:1 he needs.

Oh yes, the water. DS was asked to leave!

Wish we'd got to Anwick gardens this summer - SERIOUS water-play.

I posted this on SN topics. Will check back there then be sensible and go to bed I think. Very sleep-deprived at the moment.

Thanks, 5inthebed x

Hi, u 2, just thought I would add although not Newcastle, we are north tyneside!! Keep me informed of any meet ups, hounding for disabled access etc.