Winter staycation workshops in Doncaster for children use art to help ease pandemic stress

With activities limited over the Winter period parents have praised charity for putting on creative art based groups to help children express themselves and socially interact with others.
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Darts is a charity based in the Doncaster town centre.

This Winter they have put on Winter workshops specifically for children and young people with disabilities and their parents.

Artist Karen Hall showed the children how to make wreaths and sock snow men.Artist Karen Hall showed the children how to make wreaths and sock snow men.
Artist Karen Hall showed the children how to make wreaths and sock snow men.
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Helen Jones, Assistant Director at Darts, said: “The workshops are all about having fun and getting into the festive spirit.

“It was so lovely to welcome families back to our wonderful building The Point, where they could come along and make a wreath with fabric flowers and festive sparkle.”

The kids and their families were provided with materials and kits to make the items and were led by artist Karen Hall.

Winter workshops have been put on by Darts to encourage children with disabilities to get creative.Winter workshops have been put on by Darts to encourage children with disabilities to get creative.
Winter workshops have been put on by Darts to encourage children with disabilities to get creative.
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“It was utterly joyful seeing people connecting again,” she continued.

“We have had resources available online throughout this year but events in person provide something different to those who attend.”

Helen and her team at Darts put a lot of effort into making sure this event was Covid-19 safe and social distancing measures were in place.

The number of participants was cut to one third of their original number to ensure enough space could be placed between families.

Festive wreaths were made by the children and their families.Festive wreaths were made by the children and their families.
Festive wreaths were made by the children and their families.
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Darts has run a number of these small workshops this year including a music technology class in the October half term.

“Art has such an impact on children,” Helen said.“The world does feel like it has stopped but it’s all very confusing for young people.

“Art can help take their minds off it all and they can create joyful things with their families.

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Helen said that the families were happy to have this creative outlet after many months of limited social interaction.

Darts next Winter session will be in February.

You can find more and access the charities free online resources here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.