Kite flying for Autism Awareness and Acceptance month

Parents of Children with Autism (POCA) has extended an community invitation to the city for its 'Kite Flying' event.

Speaking to Derry Now, Myra Canning, who is the Chairperson of POCA, said the kite flying was taking place in the Lenamore Youth Centre, in the Leafair area of the city, on Saturday, April 1, from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

Myra added: "We are flying kites to mark the start of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month and everyone is very welcome to come along.

"There will be kites, light refreshments, a bouncy castle, face painters and an ice cream van too."

POCA will be celebrating its 11th Birthday next month. 

Myra said: "We offer support. We run a weekly youth club in Lenamore Youth Centre on Friday afternoons from 3.30pm until 5.30pm. It is open to parents, siblings and children and young people with Autism. They can all come along and socialise and play, kick football, play snooker and do whatever they need to do.

"There is also a new sensory room in the centre and it is proving a great hit with the youngsters because some of our youngsters just need time out to chill. It is grand to be able to take them in there and let them go.

"We are parent-led so parents stay and they exchange information over a cup of coffee or tea and the children and young people get snacks and drinks."