SEND fitness
Across the UK, thousands of children with SEND aren't accessing any form of exercise or the PE curriculum because the sessions place too much demand on them, or the environment is too stimulating and the child's sensory needs aren't being met. But in fact exercise is one of the best ways to help regulate a child and get them ready for learning.
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As these children get older, it doesn't get any easier, with many gyms far too overwhelming and fitness sessions often not supportive of people with SEND. It has meant that so many children and young people with SEND aren't getting the exercise that their minds and bodies need.
"My son has complex SEN, and Dermot is patient, kind, and tailors the session to what my son wants to do and how he's feeling at the time. As well as the physical training aspect, my son enjoys Dermot's company. He feels confident to talk to Dermot about his interests and his worries, so the sessions become a helpful way for my son to engage with the outside world, as well as an important form of exercise. Dermot is encouraging and positive, and we are very fortunate to be working with him."
How I can help
Since 2020 I have been working with children and young people with a range of different needs including ASD, PDA, dyspraxia, Tourettes, brain injuries, cerebral palsy and sensory and emotional disregulation. By taking a person-led approach that meets the need of the child or young person involved, I have been able to support them with their fitness journeys.
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With nearly all the young people I have worked with I have seen huge increases in their confidence and self-esteem as well as their physical and mental health. By creating a safe space, that is both fun and challenging, and at just the right level for the individual, whatever your child or young person's needs are, I will work with you to ensure their needs are met, and they get the most of out the sessions. I am a firm believer in building trust and relationships when working with neurodiverse people, and will take the time to get to know your young person, understanding their hobbies and interests and finding out what they want from the sessions, as I believe this is the key to successful sessions.
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If you are interested in sessions for your child or young person please get in touch. I currently work in the Kingston/Weybridge/Walton/Hampton Court area.
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Sessions are priced at £40 for a 45 minute session or £50 per hour.