MEMBERS of a charity that helps children with additional needs to attend mainstream clubs and groups enjoyed a special summer party last month.
Me2Club invited families to the Thames Valley Adventure Playground for an afternoon of fun and games.
Volunteers and supporters ensured that the event was safe and enjoyable despite the 32°C heat.
In normal times, the charity holds three parties a year, but this was the first such gathering since the covid pandemic started.
They chose the playground, in Taplow, because it has a large, accessible play space catering for both children and adults with all types of disability, they have a large outside area with accessible play equipment, toy cars and a splash pad area.
Inside there is a sensory room, soft play and children’s toys.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “As part of our party, we had a face painter there and also organised a variety of craft activities for the children to do including making light-up fireflies and sea life wands.
“It was a very hot day. Luckily, we had some air-conned areas inside, water play outside and ice lollies to help keep everyone cool.
“Despite the heat it was a really positive day, the children had lots of fun, with some of them making new friends. And we’ve had feedback from families that it was a relaxing safe environment for the whole family.”
And one parent said: “We had a lovely time, it is huge for us to be able to take our children somewhere and actually enjoy it and not feel stressed or anxious.”
Awards were handed out in a number of categories, including Fundraiser of the year, Young Fundraiser of the year, the Progress Award, the Extra mile Award, and the Alexandra Briess Award.
The party was funded by donations from the Co-op’s London Road store in east Reading, Boyes Turner, and Thermal Management Solutions.
