Hi. I am a dad with a daughter aged 5 who has high function autism. I am an ex district commissioner for scouting with over 17 years youth work. My wife works in mobility and my partner is an ex carer and swimming instructor
We are very lucky and have had many chances in life. We live on a farm in west sussex.
I am looking to diversify the farm and offer holiday lets.
We believe there is a need to offer something special for families of all ages and abilities and would love to hear anyone's thoughts.
What should the cottages be like?
What facilities should we offer?
Would young adults like yurts and activities etc?
How much can people afford?
At this moment we want them to be built in straw and as green as possible. I am meeting planning in next two weeks for a preliminary site inspection and would love any comments.
We know from our daughter that calm surroundings put her at ease and that fun activities that she controls work best for her.
I hope this doesn't break any rules or is in the wrong section. I am sure the moderators will be able to advise.
We would like to convert a barn for internal activities plus another building for daily use with soft play and canteen facilities. Planning willing. These could be used by local groups.
We have horses which we find calm Our daughter. Again does this help anyone else?
We were planning a large adventure playground but again would love to know if this is wanted or suitable.
We also thought should families et al come sending out specific picture brochures as guides to what to expect.
we do this for our daughter when she goes to school so she knows what to expect each day.
I liked cottages and tents as a young adult, but it also depends on the room mates and whether one can take a break from them if necessary (curtains, room dividers?). What about declaring one central common room as official meeting point for people who are looking for companions to explore or chat?
Regarding facilities, some people like to eat in groups or at fixed times, and others prefer alone or at odd times, so maybe consider an option for self-service snacks.
You could have learning trails that explain the place, its history, animals, plants, seasons, and farm tasks; and fitness trails that suggest physical activities in nature. I personally would label the heck out of things (exits, bathrooms, opening hours, farm animals, buildings, map, lunch menu, name tags, keys, way signs, everything!) but that may just be me. ;-)
that calm surroundings put her at ease and that fun activities that she controls work best for her.
