A NEW scheme in Okehampton inspired by a little girl with Down?s Syndrome is set to introduce many children with special needs to sport and leisure. ?Daisy?s Link to Leisure? at Parklands Leisure Centre was created by Lynn Green who has based the activities around her experience of looking after her daughter Daisy, 2, who has Down?s Syndrome. The main elements include sensory awareness programmes, soft play and swimming sessions. The project will also act as a much-needed support group for parents. Mrs Green found that Daisy got a lot of enjoyment from sensory activities and became more alert and playful because of them. She wanted to share this knowledge with parents and children in Okehampton. She said: ?Not only will the children benefit but the parents will have support from staff who know some of the difficulties they might face and how rewarding a scheme will be.? The multi-sensory facilities will provide great therapeutic value for improving quality of life by presenting the children with opportunities for exploration of the environment, self-development and relaxation as well as the long-term benefits of helping to reduce fatigue, diabetes, obesity and depression. For those using a wheelchair, the scheme aims to have activities which will balance muscle groups and help achieve both their physical and emotional needs. Mrs Green added: ?Although we are initially aiming at children aged up to five years we hope to expand in the future.? The first meeting of a parents? support group takes place tomorrow (Friday) at the centre between 11am and noon and a swim session will be held the next day (June 10) for children between the ages of 4 and 16. It is open to any children with an ?additional? need and their parents. Anyone interested in being part of Daisy?s Link to Leisure or would like more information can contact project manager Lynn on 01837 659 154 or visit website: http://www.leisureconnection">www.leisureconnection. co.uk
