Portsmouth
With the summer holidays in full swing, it can be difficult to find free and low-cost activities to keep children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) occupied during the final few weeks of August. If the weather is less than summery, things to do indoors are at the top of everyone’s list.
Portsmouth SEND Local Offer have revealed their top five accessible indoor activities to keep families entertained this August, focusing on cost-friendly things to do.
Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:
“While children and young people always look forward to six weeks off in summer, it can be an expensive time for parents and carers looking for things to do. As the final few weeks of the holidays draw near, Portsmouth SEND Local Offer have picked five accessible indoor activities for families in the city.
“Whether you want to play and bounce at Exploria or attend a wellbeing workshop for children at North End Library, there are plenty of activities that are free or don’t cost the earth.”
For more ideas on things to do in Portsmouth that are accessible, visit www.portsmouthlocaloffer.org/summerfun
SEND family swim session – Charter Community Sports Centre
Every Saturday – (1pm – 1:45pm)
Go for a swim together at the Charter Community Sports Centre in special SEND family sessions every Saturday. Carers do not need to pay. These sessions are a great opportunity to perfect your swimming skills. All abilities welcome.
Children’s drawing for wellbeing workshop – North End Library
16, 23 and 30 August (12pm – 2pm)
A free drawing workshop for wellbeing welcomes children (7 – 16 years old) who are neurodivergent and/or have additional emotional and mental health needs. Materials are provided but families can bring their own if they wish. Local artist, Andy White will show children special drawing techniques to get their ideas onto paper. Just turn up on the day and enjoy being creative!
SEND play and bounce session – Exploria
Every Tuesday until 29 August (9am – 10am)
Visit Exploria in Southsea for SEND play and bounce sessions every Tuesday during the summer holidays. These sessions provide the opportunity for 2 – 18 year olds with special educational needs to enjoy Exploria in a less busy environment. There is also a dedicated sensory room with stimulating lights, sound and touch. Please be aware the bounce area is only open to over 5s.
Flip Out Portsmouth – SEN autism session
Every Sunday from 9am – 10am
If your child or young person has autism, Flip Out Portsmouth’s SEN and/or autism sessions are worth experiencing. During these one-hour sessions, no music plays and the Flip Out team are available to support the needs of visitors. These sessions are suitable for all ages and abilities.
Junior Disability Sports and Football – Mayfield School
14, 21 and 24 August – 9:30am – 1:30pm
Join Pompey in the Community as part of HAF (Holiday Activities and Food), where children and young people can try out a range of specially adapted sports to accommodate their needs. These include basketball, netball, cricket, rounders, dodgeball, tennis, and archery. Food and refreshments provided.
