ReachUp

The ReachUp recreation program is an evidence-based program for individuals aged 5-18 years with a developmental delay or disability. We specialise in providing support in the areas of behaviour management, social and communication skills, learning/special education.

Our programs foster social skills and community participation and are a combination of centre based and excursion-based activities. This is a great opportunity for young people to reach goals, laugh, make friendships, and try something new. All programs provide support for all levels of development and are based on positive behaviour support strategies which aim to support individuals to share in family and community life and ensure they ReachUp to their full potential. The program is tailored according to the individual’s age or stage in life.

Our programs are school term based and run every Saturday 9.30-3.30pm. We currently have two programs, our Teens Program (aged 13-18 years) which is run in the community whilst our Kids Program (aged 5-12 years) is often centre based with some community outings.

All our programs aim to help kids:

• Develop practical life skills
• Develop problem solving skills
• Develop fine and gross motor skills
• Learn to self-regulate and manage their emotions
• Practice using public transport
• Practice using money and access various stores including supermarkets and restaurants/cafes
• Develop their social and communication skills

Our program size is 6 children at a minimum and up 12 kids at a maximum per program. Our programs are staffed 1;1 and/ or 1:2 to ensure appropriate support is provided to meet the needs of each child.

Each program is run by a group leader and various allied health trained therapy assistants. Our therapy assistants help participants learn new skills through play, focusing on their strengths, needs and goals. The team encourages participants to have fun, make new friends and try different activities.

Activities vary each term and may include things such as:

• Visiting places of interest like parks, beaches, museums and other attractions
• Going to the movies
• Taking part in creative projects, Arts and Crafts
• Participating in physical fitness activities, athletics and sports
• Attending sports games, concerts and community events
• Going on a picnic
• Cooking classes
• Yoga, Zumba, and music

Each participant that attends the program will have an individual plan made for them which across all activities will be implemented and practiced by one of our key therapists. The therapist provide specialised instruction and support to the therapy assistant so that as a team we can help and support the individuals to enhance their development.

Recreational activities are part of everyday life, and often we take them for granted. Whether it’s playing a casual game of soccer or cricket or taking part in an arts and craft classed with friend. These are activities everybody does for fun and can work wonders to improving mental and physical health and wellbeing.

All our programs focus on capacity building so if you have NDIS funding, are self-managed and would like to know more about any of the services please do not hesitate to contact us on (02) 9981 3003 or info@thinkahead.com.au