Living with a learning disability should not stop someone from leading an active and enjoyable life, and from being supported to get out and about in their local community.
Drama, dance, art and music
Communicating with others can sometimes be difficult for someone with a learning disability, and can lead to frustration. A person with a learning disability will experience the same emotions as anyone else, but may not be able to express them.
Giving someone a creative outlet can help them to express how they're feeling and it can help them to better reflect on what they're feeling and become more self-aware, and this can be particularly true of someone with a learning disability. It can also build independence, autonomy and self-esteem.
Going to music, dance, art or drama classes can also help teach a person with learning disabilities how to interact with others and how to follow instructions.
Exercise and sport
Children with learning disabilities may not only have different psychological needs from typically developing adults, but they also may have different physical needs due to other health problems. Exercising or playing a sport is a great way to stay fit and healthy and can help provide a fun environment to teach social skills. There are a number of specialist sports clubs and centres for people with learning disabilities.
Mencap have produced an easy-read leaflet with information and advice on how people with learning disabilities can get involved in sports.
Places to go
There are a number of different venues, day centres and youth clubs available for people with learning disabilities. They host a range of fun activities and often provide education and learning opportunities, such as teaching skills for independent living like cooking.
