For too long, Activity Coordinators have been expected to work at home and in their own time, to organise activities.
Much more will be achieved if they can be allocated a space to work, the correct tools for the job and the support of all members of staff.
Here's my top 7 essentials for every Activity Coordinator - Read the full article here
1. Laptop
Organising and researching activities
Finding FREE resources (wordsearches, colouring pages for adults, etc.)
Creating resources to compliment their own ideas
Contacting Entertainers to make/confirm bookings and booking Theatre, Museum, Library visits, etc.
Creating Notice Board Events Calendars, and emailing, events details to friends and relatives to keep them in the loop.
And, most importantly, can be shared with residents ANYWHERE so that they can help with ideas, keep in contact with their friends and family through emails and Skype.This is also a great resource for befriending other Care Homes elsewhere in this country or abroad.
2. Printer
Printing Posters, Flyers, Invitations and photographs to use on display boards, in photo albums to share and in residents' files to evidence activities
Printing FREE resources (wordsearches, colouring pages for adults, etc.)
Printing Pictures to use for reminiscence or discussion
And, most importantly, can be used by residents ANYWHERE
3. Laminator
Laminating Posters and residents' art work for display
Laminating FREE resources (wordsearches, colouring pages for adults, etc.)
Laminating pictures to use for reminiscence or discussion and Activities Sheets for use around the home
Laminating Photographs to use on display boards, in photo albums to share and in residents' files to evidence activities
Laminating pictures on A4 sheets to use for table mats for themed meals
And, most importantly, can be used by residents ANYWHERE
4. Camera
Use the camera to create a fun photo session.
Taking photos at events and activity sessions to share with staff, relatives and residents and for evidence
Taking activity related photos to use for promoting the home via social media.
And, most importantly, can be used by residents ANYWHERE
5. Photo Albums
Sharing collections of photos taken at events and activity sessions with staff, relatives and residents.
Smaller albums (often available from 'Pound Shops') can be used for individuals to keep a copy of photographs of themselves - these create a great resource for their visitors and staff alike.
And, most importantly, can be used by residents ANYWHERE
*Always date your photographs so that they can also be used to evidence the work of the activity coordinator, activity providers and other staff involved in activities.
6. Activities Trolley(s)
The Activities Coordinator/Provider often has lots to transport from their cupboard (You are going to give them a cupboard, right?)
to their chosen area for activities. Remember the moving and handling course you insisted they attend? It never ceases to amaze me when I see Activity Coordinators carrying dozens of heavy boxes to the room where they are going to lead an activity and then lugging them all back again at the end. Buy them a trolley!
Here are a few things they will need in it too;
Arts and Crafts Materials - don't forget the glue gun!
Resources for Reminiscence and Discussion
Musical Instruments
Items for Group Activities that promote movement ( balls, beanbags, elastic rope, etc.)
Files for recording attendees and activities provided
7. Bright Copper Kettles Membership
If you don't want to lose your Activity Coordinator to that laptop for too long, give them a head start, buy them a Bright Copper Kettles Membership. They will save hours of researching for activity ideas.
Researched ideas, information and inspiration to get every Activity Coordinator off on the right foot.
Includes free resources (wordsearches, colouring pages for adults,etc)
Themes for reminiscence and discussion
Calendar of Events with links to relevant websites for more information and resources.
Ideas for Group Activities
How to include Hydration and Nutrition based activities
Signposting to other websites that have more to offer, including free resources.
LIsts by area of entertainers and places to go
Information about dementia and how to consider this in planning activities
Contact details for dementia trainers and further resources
Ideas for fundraising
Ideas for community connection, including intergenerational activities
Includes: Membership Badge and Member Certificate
Comments