Why Community Activities are so Important for Participants at Options for Life!!

Options for life is a local charity in Sandwell supporting adults with learning disabilities and/or autism. One of the many ways we do this is by offering our participants a wide variety of outdoor activities. These activities are designed to provide a fun and engaging way for participants to learn new skills, build their confidence, and explore the world around them. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the outdoor activities that participants of Options for Life enjoy.

One popular activity that participants at Options for Life take part in is visiting places of interest. This might include museums, art galleries, historical sites, or other cultural landmarks. By visiting these places, participants learn more about the world around them, gain new knowledge and insights, and broaden their horizons. Plus, it's a fun way to spend the day with friends!

Another favourite activity of Options for Life participants is walking around parks. This is a great way to get some fresh air, exercise, and enjoy the natural beauty of the world around us. Walking in a park also provides an opportunity for participants to socialise with one another, and build strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie.

Football is another popular outdoor activity for Options for Life participants. Playing sports like football provides a number of benefits, including improved physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork skills. It also offers an opportunity to socialize and make new friends, as participants work together to achieve a common goal. Each session organises cross-bar challenge game and one of the participants win the trophy.

Visiting big cities like Birmingham is another great way for Options for Life participants to get out and explore the world around them. Big cities offer a wealth of opportunities for cultural and educational experiences, such as visiting museums or attending exhibitions. It also provides the chance to experience new foods, sights, and sounds, which can be both exciting and educational.

Participants visit a nearby allotment for gardening sessions. Gardening has proven to be an incredibly rewarding activity for the participants at Options for Life. Not only does it provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, but it also offers the opportunity to enjoy fresh and healthy produce. There is something truly special about watching a tiny seed grow into a thriving plant that produces delicious fruits and vegetables. In addition to the physical benefits of gardening, it also provides a sense of peace and tranquility, as well as a chance to connect with nature.

Watching movies is another popular activity that Options for Life participants enjoy. Whether they go to the cinema or watch a movie at home, this can be a great way to unwind and relax after a busy day. It's also a great way to bond with other participants, as they can discuss the movie together and share their thoughts and feelings about it.

Finally, playing bowling is a fun and engaging activity that is enjoyed by many Options for Life participants. Bowling provides an opportunity to develop hand-eye coordination, balance, and concentration skills, while also offering a chance to socialise and have fun with friends.

In conclusion, the outdoor activities offered by Options for Life provide numerous benefits for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism. These activities provide physical exercise, socialisation opportunities, and chances to learn new skills and explore new areas. From walking in local parks to attending exhibitions in big cities, Options for Life provides person-centred activities depending on the choices of the participants.