And just like that, the days of summer gradually give way to the crispness of autumn. I'm trying hard not to lament the long hot days of summer and look forward to the new season.
September brings with it a unique blend of nostalgia and new beginnings.
For care home activity coordinators, this transition period is the perfect opportunity to refresh your calendar with engaging and meaningful activities that resonate with residents. Whether you’re welcoming the first signs of autumn or celebrating the return of school days, September is full of potential for creating moments of joy, connection, and reminiscence.
As September ushers in the first hints of autumn (the air is definitely cooler), consider activities that highlight the beauty of the changing season.
Organise nature walks where residents can enjoy the crisp air and observe the changing foliage. Collect fallen leaves, conkers, and pinecones, then bring them back indoors for crafting sessions. Residents can create autumn wreaths, leaf collages, or decorative garlands. These activities not only stimulate creativity but also provide a gentle form of exercise.
September is the traditional month for harvest festivals, a time to celebrate the bounty of the season. Host a Harvest Festival event, where residents can share stories of their experiences with harvests, farming, or gardening. Include seasonal treats like homemade soups and apple pies or crumble.
September often brings with it the feelings for new beginnings, new intentions, and new results.
A time to reset.
The best start to a reset, is reflection.
Get nostalgic.
Create activity sessions that evoke memories.
Listen to songs like (Remember the Days of the) Old Schoolyard by Cat Stevens and We Said We Wouldn't Look Back from the musical Salad Days.
Create a “Back to School” day where residents can reminisce about their school days.
Create sensory boxes filled with autumn-themed items like cinnamon sticks, dried leaves, woollen fabrics, conkers and fir cones. These can be passed around during a quiet session, allowing residents to explore the textures, scents, and colours at their own pace.
Incorporating these September-themed activities into your care home schedule can help create a vibrant and engaging environment where residents feel valued and connected. By embracing the seasonal changes and tapping into nostalgic themes, you’ll provide meaningful experiences that enrich their lives and bring a sense of joy as autumn unfolds.
The key to successful activities is flexibility and sensitivity to the individual needs and preferences of your residents. With a bit of creativity and planning, September can be a month full of warmth, laughter, and new memories in your care home.
If you'd like more ideas for September activities visit the online shop
or come and join the membership for even more.
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