Kids And Young Adults Klub (KAYAKS) - special needs support group
KAYAKS is a support group for families affected by disability and special educational needs.
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Contents
Overview
Kids And Young Adults Klub (KAYAKS) is a support group for families affected by disability and special educational needs.
If someone has challenges with social interaction, emotional well-being, development, learning, or mental health, KAYAKS can offer support.
The services is based in South Shields but is open to families in the North East.
They offer a safe and inclusive space for children, young people, and their families to connect and thrive.
Our services are available on weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
Support available
KAYAKS offer many activities and sessions for children, young people, parents, and carers.
These are designed to meet SEND needs, making sure everyone feels understood, valued, and supported.
KAYAKS SEND family activity session
- sensory space for regulation, relaxation and engagement
- creation station - arts, crafts, and play-doh activities
- games area - gaming, board games, and group games
- construction area - lego builds, magnetic tiles, trucks, and blocks
- adult-sized bouncy castle
- sports
- outdoor play - bikes, scooters, go-karts, multi-use games area, and playing fields
- pool and table games
- under 5s area - developmental toys, dress-up, role-play, sensory, and nature activities
- regular special guests providing themed, seasonal and specialist sessions for families
Specialist support and learning opportunities
- discovery club - send home education group
- send workshops
- outreach support for schools and businesses
- securing reasonable workplace adjustments
- ehcp support
- adult referral pathways for autism and adhd assessments
- wellbeing and mental health support
- navigating the benefits system
Family and social activities
- coffee mornings, parent and carer breakfast club and peer support.
- under 5s stay and play with sensory space
- pizza and gaming nights
- over 18s social group
- send discos and adult socials
- holiday activities and seasonal event
- residential stays, watersports, adventure and day trips
Skill building and personal development
- cooking club
- upcycling and sewing club
- mencap gateway award, the mayor's award, key+ fund projects, support and opportunities for those completing the duke of Edinburgh award
- training courses, work experience placements and volunteering opportunities.
Who can access the service
- Families in the North East
- Children and young people aged 0-18
- Parents, carers, and family members
- Adults, 18 years and older
How to access the service
You do not need a referral or formal diagnosis to access the service.
You can contact the service:
- in person at a KAYAKS SEND Family Activity session. Sessions take place on Saturdays, 1pm at Harton Academy 6th Form, South Shields.
- on Facebook at The Kayaks Community
- by email at attalk2us@thekayaks.org.uk
- on their website, see The Kayaks