Celebrating Summer with Siblings Days: Building Bonds and Memories

This summer, Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service organised a fantastic series of Siblings Days, providing the brothers and sisters of the children, families and young people we support with an array of fun-filled activities. These days were designed to offer them a break, a sense of togetherness, and a chance to build meaningful relationships with other siblings in similar situations.

With activities ranging from go-karting and motorbike rides to poetry workshops and kite-making, every session fostered teamwork and camaraderie, helping these siblings create lasting memories. 

Mini Garden and Wildlife Session with Martin, Silvia, and BBOWT 

The series kicked off with a calming and hands-on mini garden and wildlife session, led by our very own Martin and Silvia, supported by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT).  

The children explored the wonders of nature, learning about plants and insects while getting their hands dirty in the garden. Guided by expert tips, they created mini wildlife-friendly spaces and discussed the importance of protecting the environment. The group worked together to design their garden areas, fostering teamwork as they helped one another plant flowers and create bug hotels.  

It was a beautiful day that not only connected the children with nature but also with each other, as they shared in the joy of nurturing something together. A heartfelt thank you to Martin, Silvia, and the BBOWT for bringing this peaceful and enriching session to life. 

Thrills at Absolutely Karting, Maidenhead 

For a boost of adrenaline, the siblings were treated to a thrilling day of go-karting at Absolutely Karting in Maidenhead. This high-speed adventure had everyone revved up as they zipped around the track, competing in a friendly race. It was wonderful to see the children cheer each other on, demonstrating fantastic sportsmanship.  

Whether they were vying for the top spot or just enjoying the ride, the camaraderie was infectious. Even off the track, the participants shared laughs and stories about their best moments behind the wheel. A massive thank you to Absolutely Karting for giving the siblings a day of excitement and competition that they won’t forget. 

Roaring in with the Thames Valley Hogs 

Next up, we were treated to a roaring surprise with a visit from the Thames Valley Hogs motorbike group. The sight of gleaming chrome and powerful engines instantly lit up the faces of everyone present. The Hogs not only gave them the opportunity to sit on the bikes, but also shared stories about their travels and adventures, captivating the group with their tales.  

The visit wasn’t just about the bikes; it was about the bond formed through shared experiences, as the siblings asked questions and even compared the thrill of motorbikes to their go-karting experience. The sense of community and inclusion was unmistakable, with the children and the Hogs forming connections through their mutual love for adventure. A huge thanks to the Thames Valley Hogs for making this day so memorable! 

Puzzle Solving at the Braywick Centre Escape Room 

The next challenge on the Siblings Days calendar was an escape room experience at the Braywick Centre in Maidenhead. Teams of siblings were locked in rooms filled with clues, puzzles, and hidden secrets they had to solve in order to escape. Working against the clock, the children showed incredible teamwork as they collaborated, shared ideas, and encouraged each other through moments of confusion and triumph.  

There was laughter, excitement, and a palpable sense of achievement when each group finally cracked the code and escaped. This experience reinforced the idea that together, they could solve anything. Thank you to the team at the Braywick Leisure Centre for providing an unforgettable, brain-teasing adventure.  

Sports Day with EL Fitness 

What better way to celebrate teamwork than with a Sports Day? Hosted at Alexander Devine by EL Fitness, this day was full of fun, games, and a little friendly competition. From sack races to obstacle courses, the children participated in a wide range of activities that tested their physical skills and, more importantly, their ability to work together.  

The energy was electric as siblings encouraged each other, sometimes forming their own little teams to take on different challenges. The day ended with everyone feeling a little more connected—and a little tired! A big thank you to EL Fitness for bringing fun and fitness to the forefront and helping the siblings discover the joy of working together through sport. 

Poetry Workshop with Norden Farm 

The art of expression took centre stage during a wonderful poetry workshop, led by Norden Farm Centre for the Arts. The children were encouraged to tap into their creative sides, using words to explore their feelings and experiences. The room was filled with inspiration as the siblings wrote and shared their poems, sometimes working in pairs or small groups to craft verses that reflected their unique thoughts.  

This session was not just about poetry; it was about connection, as the children listened to each other’s words and offered support and encouragement. By the end, they had created a beautiful patchwork of poems that reflected their collective experience. A special thank you to Norden Farm for guiding this heartfelt and introspective session. 

Kite-Making with Norden Farm 

Continuing the creative spirit, Norden Farm returned for a kite-making workshop, right here at Alexander Devine. The siblings were taught how to design and build their very own kites, which they later flew together in our garden. The process of constructing the kites allowed the children to practice patience, share resources, and help one another when needed, turning this artistic activity into a fun, collaborative event.  

The excitement of seeing their creations soar in the sky was a sight to behold, and their teamwork was evident in every moment, from the crafting table to the kite-flying field. A heartfelt thanks once again to Norden Farm for bringing creativity and joy into the day. 

Yoga Session with Petra and Minna 

To bring a peaceful close to the summer activities, Petra and Minna from Alexander Devine led a calming yoga session. The siblings were guided through gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques, allowing them to unwind after all the action-packed days. It was a moment of tranquility that encouraged the children to focus on their own well-being while also sharing in the collective calm of the group.  

The session fostered a sense of togetherness as they practiced the poses side by side, helping each other find balance and peace. Thank you to Petra and Minna for ending our Siblings Days with such a grounding and relaxing experience. 

Special Thanks to Liz and Gemma 

None of these incredible Siblings Days would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Liz Johnson and Gemma Wood, our amazing play specialists here at Alexander Devine.  

They organised every detail, ensuring that each activity was not only fun but also meaningful for the siblings involved. Their efforts have brought so much joy and created lasting memories for the brothers and sisters who often find themselves on the sidelines of their family’s care journey. A huge thank you to Liz and Gemma for making these days so special. 

Get in on the Action! 

If you’re one of our families and would like to get involved in future Siblings Days, please don’t hesitate to reach out. These events offer a fantastic opportunity for your children to have fun, make new friends, and build bonds with others in similar situations. We’d love to see you there!