Rainbow Land Play Time: Melanie Heaney

Friday, August 7, 2009

VERY SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

I am very happy to announce we have an official committee for Rainbow Land Play Time. The committee members are:

Allison Dix
Helen Howson
Simone Rister
Frances Willson
Melanie Heaney

All these wonderful ladies bring their own unique talents to the committee aside from the fact they are wonderful and dedicated individuals who really care about the Rainbow Land Play Time's future and having much needed services for families living with autism in the community.

We are yet to hold our first meeting, however, this will be soon depending on everyone's busy schedules. There is a lot for us to discuss and make decisons on, however, we will be sure to keep everyone informed.I have to say that the announcement of the committee is a great relief to me because these fabulous women will bring much more to the group than I could ever bring on my own.

I wish to thank them for their support over the past 5 wonderful months that we have been holding the playgroup as well as to all the families who are a part of our group and everyone else who supports us.

I would also like to specifically thank both Shelley & Ian Craig for doing such a wonderful job in helping me get the playgroup off the ground.

HAPPY RAINBOWS :-)♥ Allison

P.S. The fundraising / official opening dinner is now likely to be held early next year. I have finally received a response back from Sfera's about hosting it for us and so now at least I have something I can take to the committee to discuss. xxx

SESSION UPDATE: Sat 4th April 09

at 11:37am on April 5th, 2009

Yesterday was such a wonderful playgroup (although I missed my sons & hubby because they were sick). Six families attended, including two new families who joined us for the first time. We were very fortunate to also have Lee-Anne Black, an Autism Advisor from Autism SA and Melanie Heaney an SSO from my daughter's school - St Joseph's PS at Tranmere. Our visitors meant so much to the group as it signified community support for what we do. Lee-Anne and Melanie both plan to visit us again, which is absolutely wonderful.The children had a FUN time colouring in Easter Eggs and Easter Pictures as well as the usual activities of playing on the playground, playing with the toys, riding the bikes and tumbling on the mat and cushions.

Reminder: No playgroup during school holidays or on Anzac Day.

Cheers, Allison

Benefits to Families

Rainbowland Play Time provides many benefits to families living with autism and development delay. These benefits include:

- family inclusion...a safe place to take the whole family in a supportive & fun environment;

- child lead play...providing the child with an ASD or developmental delay with opportunities to choose their own activities and play options;

- sibling fun & support...provides siblings of children with an ASD or developmental delay ongoing support and an opportunity to have fun. The siblings are equally important;

- family support...families provide each other with support and advice that you can't get under normal circumstances;

- information...Rainbowland Autism Services sources information for parents as required.

- fun...RLPT offers an opportunity for all who attend to have a fun afternoon without the stress of too much structure and rules;

- friendships...families and the children form close friendships that are strong and long lasting.

RAINBOWLAND PLAY TIME ELIGIBITY

Rainbow Land Play Time offers a weekend Family Support Group. There are no age restrictions on this group.

Families who have a child with autism or developmental delay are eligible to register. It is really important to note that Rainbowland Play Time sessions are open to the whole family i.e. siblings. The siblings are just as important in our program as the children with specific needs and are able to participate in all our activities. We also encourage families to bring along their support networks such as relatives and friends if they wish.

Our fundamental focus is on SOCIAL & FAMILY INCLUSION and therefore there are no age restrictions or restrictions on family members who can attend. We also welcome families from all over the State of South Australia.

Click on the Photo to Watch the Story On-line

Why would you jettison a successful media career? In Ian Rogerson's case, it was because of his young son, Jack.
Diagnosed with autism as a toddler, Jack Rogerson was hyperactive, could barely speak and was unable to express ordinary affection. Like many parents of autistic children, Ian and his wife Nicole were left struggling to find their way.
Introduced by Therese Rein, the couple candidly discuss the highs and lows of life with Jack and explain how they've raised him to discover his full potential.

MISSION STATEMENT

Friday, August 7, 2009

VERY SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

SESSION UPDATE: Sat 4th April 09

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