12 Days of Christmas: Nine Sibling Days 

As we continue our festive journey through the 12 Days of Christmas, we arrive at Day 9, celebrating the joy and togetherness of our Sibling Days at Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service. These special days are all about bringing brothers and sisters together for fun-filled adventures, creating memories, and building bonds that last a lifetime. 

A Summer of Fun and Connection 

This past summer, our Sibling Days were packed with exciting activities designed to offer siblings a break, a sense of togetherness, and a chance to connect with others in similar situations. From exploring nature to engaging in creative workshops, each day was crafted to provide a unique experience. 

Mini Garden and Wildlife Session 

We kicked off with a calming mini garden and wildlife session, led by our wonderful volunteers 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. They created mini wildlife-friendly spaces and discussed the importance of protecting the environment. It was a beautiful day that connected the children with nature and with each other.   

Thrills at Absolutely Karting 

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 friendly races. The camaraderie was infectious, with participants sharing laughs and stories about their best moments behind the wheel.   

Roaring in with the Thames Valley Hogs 

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

Puzzle Solving at the Braywick Centre Escape Room 

The next challenge on the Sibling 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.   

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.  

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.   

Kite-Making with Norden Farm 

Continuing the creative spirit, Norden Farm returned for a kite-making workshop 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 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.   

Yoga Session with Petra, our Physio 

To bring a peaceful close to the summer activities, Petra 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. The session fostered a sense of togetherness as they practiced the poses side by side, helping each other find balance and peace.  

Celebrating Sibling Bonds at Woolley Firs with BBOWT 

On Saturday 28 September 2024, we organised a special Siblings Day at Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre near Maidenhead. This event offered a wonderful opportunity for the siblings of the children and families we care for to come together, bond, and create memories in nature. The day included a peaceful nature walk, a session about moths, pond dipping, blending learning with outdoor adventure.  

The Gift of Elikai, Our Christmas Star: A Gift of Love  

As we reflect on the fun we have seen this year in our sibling days, we are calling on our community to support our Christmas Appeal. This campaign is the heart of our festive season, helping us bring joy and comfort to the children and families we care for. Every donation makes a difference, whether it’s funding a therapy session, helping us provide respite care, or simply making a child’s Christmas a little brighter.  

Please consider donating to our Christmas Appeal and sharing the spirit of giving. Visit www.alexanderdevine.org/christmas to make your contribution today.  

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who has fundraised, volunteered, or donated this year. Your support means the world to us and the families we support.   

Join Us for Future Sibling Days 

If you are one of our families and would like to get involved in future Sibling Days, please do not hesitate to reach out to care@alexanderdevine.org.  

These events offer a fantastic opportunity for your children to have fun, make friends with other children going through a similar situation and offer valuable stimulation during the school holidays.