Short Breaks | Yippee (5-11)

Yippee is YMCA East Surrey’s warm and welcoming playscheme for children aged 5-11 with disabilities and additional needs – including children who need 1:1 support – across East Surrey and West Sussex. 

Yippee provides fun and inclusive activities for children, ensuring that they can play with friends and try out new activities, whilst giving families some support.

We believe that all children have the right to play. Our qualified and experienced staff lead a variety of activities to encourage children to take part and try something new. 

All staff are trained in meeting the needs of disabled children and have special training in behaviour management and communication methods, such as Makaton. There is a high staff to child ratio so that each child gets the support they need and, with a mix of young staff and leaders, they create a lively and fun atmosphere. 

YMCA East Surrey seeks to include every child and young person regardless of any additional needs they may have and to ensure sure they have a positive experience at our provision. In order to meet this need and our responsibilities under safeguarding and health and safety guidance and legislation, we may need to make certain adjustments to ensure a quality service for young people and their safe attendance at activities for themselves, other young people and staff.

We aim to ensure each child:

• Will be respected as an individual, listened to, have their feelings respected and opinions valued
• Has access to stimulating fun and creative activities, supporting and encouraging each child’s individual stage of physical, intellectual, social and emotional growth
• Is given the opportunity to make new friends, discover new skills, realise their full potential and develop confidence and positive image
• Will be welcomed into a safe, secure environment with a happy, friendly atmosphere
• Will be cared for by experienced and skilled staff that understand and value the needs of children
• Will be given praise, encouragement and the opportunity to succeed in an environment where positive behaviour is promoted and self-discipline is encouraged
• Will be encouraged to show consideration and respect for each other, staff members and the environment.