For families of neurodivergent children, summer can offer valuable respite – but with the return to school looming, the break can also be a reminder of the difficult transition ahead.
In the sunshine at Graves Park Animal Farm, a face painter decorates children’s faces as superheroes, animals and princesses. This is just one of the activities at a summer day out organised by Family Action’s Neurodiversity Sheffield, giving families a chance to relax, have fun and spend time together.
Among those joining the service on the day is parent Gazala, who says she has found the staff’s support with applying for an Education, Health and Care plan (EHCP) invaluable.
Gazala tells us, “It’s been a real journey with the service, but I’ve gotten a lot of information.
“I have two children with special educational needs and disabilities, but I’ve only been able to bring one today because I can’t manage them both.
I’m glad of the opportunity to access activities in summer – that’s something we struggle with – and there’s lots to do here!
The day gives families a chance to have fun, make memories and enjoy a bit of a break. With nature trails, colouring, quizzes and, of course, meet the farm’s residents – from pigs and sheep to goats, ponies and some VERY outgoing llamas!
The event’s open to everyone, giving parents who may not have heard of Neurodiversity Sheffield the chance to meet the team and find out how they can help families of children with ADHD, as well as those still looking for answers.
Rachelle has yet to receive a diagnosis for her child, but says she found chatting to the staff valuable.
I wish I’d had this when my youngest was little, something like this would have really helped at the time.
But while summer activities can provide valuable respite, they do not necessarily take away the worries about what comes next. For mum Cheryl, the day out was an opportunity to focus on her child’s needs while her other children are supported.
She said: “It’s a nightmare sometimes. He’s one of seven children, so it can be hard to deal with his tantrums, and it can also be hard to support the rest when he’s kicking off.”
For Cheryl, relaxing during the summer is difficult when she knows the back-to-school period will be challenging.
“We can’t get a diagnosis yet, but the school are picking up on it at least. Even so, starting reception year at school will be really difficult for him, and he refused to attend the introduction days, which makes it even worse, so finding a resource like this is really useful for us”.
Some days he’ll point blank refuse to go to school - he just won’t move or put his shoes or jacket on.
For families like Cheryl’s, summer respite really matters. A day like this won’t take away all the challenges of going back to school, but it can give families a chance to relax, recharge and enjoy the summer before the transition begins.
