Hi Julia and every-one else,

I have been checking this site for a couple of months but not got round to joining.  I have a 6 year old son who was diagnosed with Autism in January.  After a difficult year in mainstream school, he transferred to Haughton in September and seems to be doing much better.

 

I thought I would post some useful information.  It is hard to find places to take autistic children, and I've had some bad experiences, but the following ones are really good:

 

http://www.mickeymillers.com/  Craven Arms.  A friendly play barn which is big enough for you to go round with your child and keep him out of trouble!  They have a member of staff at the top of the big slide to make sure it is used safely, which is great because my son doesn't understand you have to go round by the steps and just climbs back up the slide.  My son particularly loves the poles with discs at the bottom that spin round.  There are outside toys and a maze in summer.  Lots of parking.

 

North Staffs http://www.specialadventureplayground.co.uk/ in Newcastle under Lyme.  Small soft play area and nice outside area with swings, trikes etc for all sorts of special needs.  The staff and volunteers and very kind, and other parents (family day Saturday afternoon) friendly and chatty.  Good parking, but might run out if very busy.

 

http://www.snapcannock.co.uk/ Special Needs Adventure Playground, Cannock.  I've not tried this one yet, but am told it is very good.

 

Has any-one else got some good suggestions?