The impact of OCEM's Holiday Respite programme
Half-term can be difficult for SEMH children and their parents or caregivers. Multiple weeks away from the routine and stimulation of school could impact a child’s personal development and educational progression.
It’s essential to nurture neurodiverse children outside of term time because as we know, emotional wellbeing forms the foundation for academic success.
This is where OCEM comes in. Our Holiday Respite programme provides an opportunity for young people with SEMH needs to explore, learn and discover their potential in a fun and supportive environment over school breaks.
About our Holiday Respite programme
For SEMH children, school holidays can result in social isolation and frustration which in turn, impacts the people around them too. The Holiday Respite programme serves as an indispensable element of their wellbeing and gives families and carers a break too.
It’s all about providing that feeling of security, that someone cares. It provides a chance to do things outside of the normal education focused curriculum that they otherwise wouldn't get the option to do. That’s why this programme is student-led. We make an action plan by collaborating and communicating with the student to discuss what they want to do with this time.
Holiday Respite programme arrangements are made by liaising with SEND departments, in conjunction with social care and education teams for ‘Looked After’ children (children in the care of the local authority). This programme ensures continuous SEMH support, so no progress is undone upon the return to school.
Going beyond education
Catering to interests can be transformative for children. Activities range from outdoor swimming, mountain biking, visiting museums, camping, art and crafts and so much more. This not only encourages independence but also allows them to explore new hobbies that enrich their lives.
Building on this, we’re seeing more and more young people spending time online. While having this space to make friends and socialise is good, we also need to expose them to the potential of the wider world. Pulling them away from screens and gently immersing them in outdoor and other useful activities.
While education is important for their future, this programme aims to develop other essential life skills such as:
Responsibility and independence
Self-esteem
Cognitive skills
Social and emotional awareness
Logic and reasoning
Budgeting and planning
This will massively contribute to their social, emotional and mental health development. So, when they do return to school, their strengths have been nurtured, promising them better learning opportunities and a brighter future.
What’s next?
We can work together to tailor the Holiday Respite programme to suit your child’s needs, budget and the family and carers.
Contact your Local Authority for more direction if you need more information about funding, or even to make them aware of this impactful programme. It’s a particularly good use of budget for child development.
For more information, connect with us on Linkedin, call 0333 77 22 493 or email info@ocem.org.uk.