Selma

DXA engages six to 18 year olds with disabilities or complex health needs in different experiences such as music, movement, puppetry, animation, junk percussion, instrument making, drama and dance. Workshops are held during school holidays in venues across Norfolk which are selected for their suitability and purpose.

Selma, 45, from Attleborough, says: "The boys enjoy music making, sound making and singing. As soon as they walk in and recognise people they start to feel confident and they always have a smile on their face when I pick them up. They can't tell me about their experience - James has very limited speech and Edwin is mute †but I can read from their body language and positive attitude that they've enjoyed it..â€

"If Edwin becomes frustrated or anxious the staff will take him to a quiet place and read a book until he feels calm and relaxed. He loves the one-to-one attention and I feel confident knowing I am leaving the boys with people who like and care about them..â€

Selma says that looking after twins with such complex needs can be extremely challenging, particularly in the school holidays. "These workshops are vital. It's fine during the school term but when you are alone for six weeks with two boys like mine you need a break yourself, and the children need stimulation and structure. It's made a huge difference for all of us..â€

DXA workshops are designed for up to 12 participants and are usually divided into three sections †music; filmmaking, animation and art and movement and singing.

CME tutor Jean Hogg, who works on the DXA project, says: "We do a lot of art, such as painting and making masks as well as singing and musical instruments. We try to link the music and the art together. On one session we did a jungle themed drumming and singing session that lead into each child making clay or card jungle animals to animate. After lunch is more of a try-things-out session followed by an end of day goodbye sensory relaxation session.

"We encourage all participants and their support workers to take part in each group activity, but they are free to move outside of the activities and work on what interests them. The workshops provide valuable respite for parents and siblings of the children. We also hope that the children return home in a happy and relaxed mood, feeling positive and excited about what they have achieved..â€

DXA is part of Norfolk's Short Breaks Service which was set up to give disabled children an opportunity to meet new people and try different experiences, and give their families a break from their caring responsibilities.