Esposito’s Elf School Accessibility Guide

Christmas can be a difficult time for children with Autism Spectrum Conditions, there is a lot of changes happening in school, routine and structure may change throughout December term, and at home while we prepare for Christmas time.

Even opening a gift your child’s not expecting can be distressing for a child who has Autism, my son doesn’t cope well with surprises, and this can also present with physical distress as anxiety levels increase.

We welcome children of all abilities to our events, to ensure that children of all abilities can participate in activities we may need to adapt some games and activities to ensure the Health & Safety of every child attending.

For children who have an Autism Spectrum Condition, The Party Squad/Elf School has put together a Social Story for families to read through at their leisure to help children prepare for coming to Esposito’s Elf School. We understand that anxiety can be a contributing factor for those with an ASC, this social story may also be helpful for any child who may also suffer from Anxiety Conditions.

Elfie Doodles has first-hand experience of having a child who has Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, and high anxiety, so if you have any questions about the event please do get in touch.

Please be aware that Esposito’s Deli remains open to the public for the 10am-12pm Elf School sessions on 17, 18 and 23 December, so it may be busier at these times. All other sessions are 5pm-7pm on 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 December and won’t be open to the public.

A maximum of 30 children could be in attendance, we have asked that families limit the amount of adults attending to a maximum of 2 adults per paying ticket as space is limited at Esposito’s Deli.

WORKSHOPS DISCLAIMER:
Your little Elves will be able to take part in the following group workshops:
BADGE MAKING – for children who are booked on to Elf School this activity is  suitable for all ages attending as the badge DOES NOT have any pins or removable items, but please supervise little ones as a selection of crayons and Crayola felt tips will be available, and we don’t want any crayons or pen lids going in their mouths.
BALLOON WORKSHOP/BALLOON SAFETY – for children who are booked in to Elf School, we recommend that this activity is suitable for children age 4+, age 3 are welcome to join in with supervision from parents.
BALLOON SAFETY GUIDELINES:
– Balloons will not be given to any child under the age of 3 to ensure Health & Safety Guidelines are followed
– We always recommend that all children aged 8 and younger are supervised at all times when playing with balloons as they are choking hazard.
DO NOT allow your child put any balloons in their mouths.
– Any burst balloons must be discarded immediately.
– Once adults are given balloons for the workshop it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of your children.
If your child is too young to take part in the workshop, we will make an alternative activity available.
If grown ups would like to take part in the balloon workshop instead of their little ones, you are more than welcome to do so, but please do follow the guidelines above for Balloon Safety!

There will be Sensory Toys made available that children can borrow at the event only, and must be returned at the end of the session.

There is disabled access at Esposito’s Deli with Disabled Toilet facilities.

Click here for Esposito’s Elf School Social Story