The Alberton Lions Club hosted a Calming Activity Bands Workshop at Reading Country Club on May 16, bringing together 18 dedicated women and friends of the Lions for a meaningful day of creativity, compassion and community spirit.

Held at the Reading Country Club, the workshop focused on creating sensory activity bands designed to provide comfort, stimulation, and emotional support to children living with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and anxiety-related challenges.

The initiative was facilitated by Lion Sandra Human of the Alberton Lions Club following discussions around dementia awareness and the increasing need for sensory support tools for children with developmental conditions. Inspired to make a difference, the club transformed the idea into a hands-on community project.

With guidance and support from Sarah Engelbrecht and Marleen Bridges, friends of the Alberton Lions Club, participants carefully designed and assembled colourful sensory bands using materials such as crinkle fabric, bells, pom-poms, crochet pieces, ribbons, buttons, fabric hearts, and zips. Each item was thoughtfully selected to encourage sensory engagement while also offering comfort and reassurance to children.

Safety remained a key priority throughout the workshop. Organisers ensured that all materials were securely attached, with no sharp objects or loose pieces included. Washable fabrics and bright colours were encouraged, while the activity bands were also designed to be personalised according to themes and interests such as pets or babies.

Before being distributed, the completed sensory bands will undergo approval from beneficiary institutions to ensure they meet all safety and suitability requirements. Potential beneficiaries include organisations such as the Johannesburg School for Autism and The Children’s Memorial Institute, among others.

The workshop was not only productive but also filled with laughter, teamwork, fellowship, and shared purpose. Participants described the experience as both inspiring and rewarding as they worked together to create something meaningful for children in need.

Special appreciation was extended to Sarah Engelbrecht and Marleen Bridges for sharing their expertise and assisting with the project, while Marleen was also thanked for generously preparing and donating starter kits for the workshop.

Community members interested in supporting the initiative or learning more about future workshops are encouraged to contact Lion Sandra on 083 990 0212.