Caring for a child with additional needs* can be a stressful and lonely experience. Parents whose child has additional needs sometimes avoid coming to groups/activities for fear that they will be judged by other parents or their child may be unable to cope, have a meltdown, or misbehave.  If you have a child aged 0-3 with any type of additional needs this group is ideal for you!

The group meets every Tuesday during term time from 10.00-11.30am in St Mark’s Parish Centre (opposite Ards Hospital) and is run in partnership with staff from Scrabo Children’s Centre.  Staff can provide support and advice and throughout the year we have visits from different professionals including Speech & Language Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Benefits Advisors, Disability Nurse, Music Therapist etc.

We offer a range of play based activities designed to meet the needs of the children attending and have a sensory room for those children who prefer a more calm environment or need a place to calm down.  There are plenty of highly trained staff on hand to help engage your child in activities.  During the morning the parents have a coffee break which gives them a break and a chance to talk to other parents who have had similar experiences.

Siblings aged 0-3 and grandparents are also welcome.  We look forward to seeing you there!

*Additional needs includes children who have health/medical issues, physical or learning disability or delay in any area of their development.  Children who are currently undergoing assessment for any of the above are also welcome.