St David’s Day (1st March) is a wonderful opportunity to bring a touch of Welsh culture into your care home.
Whether your residents have Welsh connections or not, this celebration offers a chance for storytelling, music, food, and creative activities that can brighten the day.
But to make it truly meaningful, it’s important to consider what will resonate most with your residents.
Using my HELPS framework; Histories, Experiences, Lifestyles, Preferences, and Strengths, you can tailor your St David's Day activities that engage and include everyone.
Here’s how:
H – Histories: Understanding personal and family connections to Wales
Some residents may have been born in Wales, lived there, or have family ties. Others might have fond memories of holidays in Snowdonia, Cardiff, or the Welsh coast.
Activity idea: Start by asking about their connections. Create a “Welsh Memories” board where residents can share photos or stories about Wales.
E – Experiences: Bringing Welsh culture to life
Even if residents don’t have direct Welsh connections, they may have experienced Welsh culture through music, poetry, or food. Encourage them to explore new experiences, too.
Activity idea: Hold a mini Eisteddfod - a traditional Welsh festival of poetry, music, and storytelling. Residents can participate by reading a poem, singing a song, or sharing a story.
L – Lifestyles: Considering daily routines and comfort levels
Residents’ lifestyles vary. Some love big group activities, while others prefer quieter moments. St David’s Day can be celebrated in different ways to suit all residents.
Activity idea:
For social residents: A St David’s Day tea party with Welsh cakes, bara brith, and daffodil decorations.
For quieter residents: A simple one-to-one chat with a dressed tray, daffodils, Welsh cakes and a cup of tea.
P – Preferences: Respecting individual interests
Not every resident will want to take part in the same way. Some may love singing and poetry, while others may prefer a quieter activity like listening or observing.
Activity idea:
Ask residents: Would they rather bake Welsh cakes, listen to a reading of Dylan Thomas, or help decorate the room with daffodils and dragons?
S – Strengths: Encouraging participation based on abilities
Every resident has strengths that can be celebrated. Identify what they are, in relation to your Welsh theme.
Activity idea:
For those who love singing: Encourage them to lead a group in Calon Lân or Bread of Heaven.
For those who enjoy storytelling: Invite them to share a memory or read a Welsh tale.
For creative residents: Offer a chance to paint a Welsh landscape or colour in Celtic patterns.
Bringing it all together
By using the HELPS framework, you ensure that St David’s Day activities are more than just a themed event. They become a meaningful celebration that respects and engages your residents.
So, whether you’re waving a Welsh flag, enjoying a delicious bara brith tea loaf, or simply sharing a conversation about fond memories of Wales, you’ll be making a difference in your residents’ day.
What are your plans for St David’s Day? Let’s share ideas!
The Activity Coordinators Toolbox contains many activity ideas for March, including the Wales Activity Pack.
or you can buy the pack from my online shop - £4.60
simply click the link below
Comentários