As the summer light begins to fade and September brings us a few cooler days, there is one thing that certainly hasn’t cooled down; the fun at James’ Place Adult Daycare Eastleigh! September has been packed with adventures, creativity, tasty treats, plenty of laughter and, of course, just a little bit of friendly competition.
Week 1 Around the World in Food
We kicked off September with an adventure around the world, exploring different foods and flavours from across the globe.
Members created their own placemats featuring some of their favourite foods. It was fascinating to see everyone’s choices, although we quickly discovered that when it comes to food, agreeing on a favourite isn’t always as easy as we thought! There was plenty of tasting going on too. Members got stuck into making their own tzatziki, hummus and Anzac biscuits, and one very kind member even brought back some delicious biscuits from their holiday in Majorca for everyone to try. Now that’s what we call bringing your holiday home with you!
With the cooler temperatures making things a little more comfortable, members also enjoyed some lovely local walks through the woods.
September also meant it was time for the Active LD Personal Best event, and our members were absolutely fantastic.
Everyone gave it their very best effort, and the day was filled with high energy, fun, laughter and friendship. We were especially proud when one of our members was presented with a trophy for her amazing efforts during our fortnightly squash sessions.
We couldn’t be prouder!
Week 2 Castles, Knights & Chocolate!
Week 2 took us back in time with a castles and knights theme, alongside a day dedicated to the wonderful world of Roald Dahl. Naturally, we decided there was only one sensible way to begin a Roald Dahl-inspired week…Chocolate tasting! Of course, not everyone agreed on which chocolates were delicious. Apparently, chocolate preferences are serious business!
Helen also ran her monthly book club, which is always a big hit with our members. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore thoughts, feelings and imagination while listening to each other and sharing ideas.
We also welcomed our friends from Basingstoke for our very first Be Active sports session. It was fantastic to get together, have fun and keep active at the same time.
Later in the week, our members transformed themselves into knights by making their very own helmets and shields.
There was also a shopping trip for some goodies, followed by a delicious sweet potato curry and chocolate cake. Because apparently one chocolate-based activity simply wasn’t enough!
To help burn off some of those calories, members enjoyed the sunshine with some fantastic parachute games in the garden. There was plenty of laughter — and thankfully, no knights were harmed in the making of the games.
Week 3 Fashion Week!
Oh my… what a week!
Fashion Week brought plenty of silliness, creativity and laughter, from clothes-sorting games to designing and making some truly questionable headwear.
Things became particularly competitive when members were split into two teams; Team Helen and Team Beulah.
The challenge? Design and create an outfit for a team member using anything you could find…Except actual clothing!
Things became suspiciously competitive, and Hayley had to step in as referee when there appeared to be a little bit of… creative interpretation of the rules.
Eventually, the outfits were judged — and we’re fairly certain Vogue magazine will be calling any day now.
There was also plenty of baking taking place in preparation for the Showcase. Because every good showcase needs snacks.
Members also created their own positive affirmation bracelets and enjoyed some mindful local walks.
Week 4 Autumn Has Arrived!
We embraced the season with lots of lovely autumnal activities, including wreath making, mini pinecone hedgehogs, sensory puzzle trays and leaf collecting for some beautiful leaf-rubbing pictures.Our autumn scavenger hunt was a particular highlight. Members searched for seasonal treasures before using their finds to create wonderful sensory pictures.
We also welcomed a very special new member to the James’ Place family…Cuthbert the Scarecrow! Cuthbert is a very jolly fellow and has been keeping a watchful eye over things. He doesn’t say much, but we’re told he’s an excellent listener.
Some of our members also met up with friends from Andover and Basingstoke for a fun-filled day at Paultons Park. There were thrills, laughter and plenty of fun, and it sounds like everyone had an absolutely fantastic day.
And Now… October!
September has certainly kept us busy, and as October arrives, we’re ready for even more autumn adventures, creativity, laughter, friendship and fun. With pumpkins, autumn colours and plenty more activities on the horizon, there’s certainly no chance of things getting boring at James’ Place!
Bring on October!
