Timaru Happenings:
Support/Social/Information Sharing Evenings:
After much deliberation the South Canterbury Support Group has been discontinued. Replacing the monthly support group we would like to run a support/social/information sharing evening once or twice a term (school term) and have a guest speaker as the focus.
More information on the second of these will follow
For more information on these support groups please contact Robyn
Autism Holiday Programmes:
Since July 2009 Autism New Zealand Canterbury Branch have managed to provide a Holiday Programme for children on the Autism Spectrum in the Timaru area. These programmes are designed to enable continuity for children during the school holidays whilst also providing valuable respite care for parents. These programmes are staffed on a 1:1 or 1:2 basis (adult:children) to ensure the right level of care is provided.
Initially the programme was designed for Primary Aged children between the ages of 5 and 12 years and is being run on Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's (9am until 3pm) during each of the school holidays, unless the day falls on a statutory holiday.
For more information about these programmes please click on the picture above
** Now here** - As of September 2010 we are expanding the Holiday Programme in Timaru to provide opportunities for children between the ages of 13 and 21. The programme will take place on a Tuesday and Thursday during the School Holidays and more information about activities and application packs to join the programme can be found here
A wonderful achievement..... by a youngster from Timaru.....
Aileen Burns grandchildren.....................
Shekinah (7) decided earlier in the year she would like to complete the Weetbix Triathlon in Mosgiel on the 7th March. As his sister trained, Joshua (9yrs, ADHD and HFA)) decided about 2 weeks later that he would like to do it too. 3 times per week they practised their running, cycling and swimming with Shekinah offering encouragement and ensuring Joshua followed her.
The time waiting for the event to start was very difficult for Josh to deal with.His ADHD plus High Functioning Autism made him a real bundle of energy.He was constantly running off necessitating many trips to bring him back. As soon as the participants were called for the Triathlon he was all concentration and attention.
Nana(Aileen) had discussed with the administrators the possibility that she might have to do it with Josh to keep him focused.They organised a crew T shirt to allow access to the transition area for me. Joshua had other ideas!
Come race day he was determined to go with his age group and to go by himself,which he did.
To see the look of excitement,determination and pride on his face as he completed the course and received his gold medal from Georgina Evers-Swindell was a real joy for his support crew of sister, Mum, Nana and great-aunt.
Joshua is very proud of his medal and is looking forward to participating again next year.
Heartiest Congratulations Joshua Welford and also his support team – a wonderful achievement 
 |
 |
 |