SEND SESSION
We are happy to share that in 2024 we ran our first session at our festival
aimed at SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) girls and their families. It was the most wonderful time with incredible feedback from the girls, parents and carers and we are excited to keep expanding on this.
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For those attending the SEND festival we created a social story, a festival map and a simple list in excel of all the activities available so parents and carers could talk their kids through what they could do before arriving at the festival. With these we hoped to alleviate any anxieties about coming to the festival. Here is an example of what we sent out for our 2024 festival:
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Click here to download our social story (word doc)
Click here to download our social story (pdf)
Click here to download our festival map
Click here to download - getting the bus scenarios and social scripts
Click here to download - getting the tube scenarios and social scripts​​
We wanted to create this session because we've had families reaching out to us in previous years saying how much they would love to join but the festival was not accessible enough for their young person.
With this in mind we have worked alongside SEND specialists to create an environment that is fun, exciting and engaging for all the girls and their families, but with a few adjustments. We want to make sure that the session is just as inspiring as any other session and that the girls who attend feel celebrated and loved.
Adjustments we put into place for this session include:
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Capacity for festivalgoers reduced by 50%
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No background music
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Access to ear defenders and sunglasses upon request
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Designated quiet room
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Parent/carer's ticket is free
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As much information as possible shared with parent/carers the week
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leading up to the festival including floorplan, activities etc.
We also share guidance with our contributors and volunteers so they can make sure you and your family feel as supported and accommodated as possible while still enjoying the festival magic.
Please be aware this is still a festival and although we are doing all we can with the resources available to us we leave it up to you to decide whether you think it is right for you and your child. If you have any questions please drop us an email info@festivalofthegirl.com.​​​
