Rock around the Christmas tree with free party at West Lothian play centre

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A West Lothian play centre that specialises in supporting kids with additional support needs is holding a fantastic free Christmas party.

Let’s Rock The Spectrum in Armadale is a “non judgmental” play space for every child up until seven years old.

This year staff have decided to hold a free Christmas event for children on December 2 and promises a fantastic night of candy floss, a disco, Santa and much more.

Owner Rachel O’neil said she’s delighted that so many local businesses have got behind her to make the Christmas event extra special.

She said: “We have been so lucky to have wonderful local businesses supporting us including Optimal Events Hire, The Little Occasion company, Zoe’s Face painting and balloons, Fly High Balloons, Funky Faces, Stuart Hogg Music and more and a local man who does the most amazing Santa visit.

“We have set up a fundraiser page to buy gifts for the kids and prizes for a free adult raffle.

“There is also an Amazon list to buy books for the kids that can be delivered straight to our space in Armadale.”

Rachel said this year her business had also been gifted free play passes each month for nominated families.

She continued: “We have donated free play sessions to lots of raffles and fayres and given away lots of prizes Including parties and days out.

“We’ve sponsored our little ones for their events and continued our free clothing pantry.

“We truly enjoy making a difference within the community.”

Rachel continued: “We know how special Christmas can be and want to create a little bit of magic in the community. “Everything donated goes directly to the event.

“If you or anyone would like to attend the event, please get in touch.

“No reason has to be given and no judgment at all.

“It may be someone on a low income, on maternity leave, someone who has had a hard year, perhaps has multiple kids or simply can’t travel further afield to larger events.

"We want everyone to have a little magic this year.

Let’s Rock the Spectrum was set up last year by Rachel, who had been teaching for 13 years in various roles such as class teacher, principle teacher and most recently in inclusion/support for learning department.

She said she was shocked after returning home from working abroad for 12 years that there were no play spaces designed with ASN kids in mind.

And so she launched Let’s Rock the Spectrum, which offers four great spaces to explore as well as a seating area.

It also has a sensory room that includes a variety of resources including self regulation aids such as weighted blankets, a cuddle canoe and assuage pillows.

There’s a role play area with a range of kids favourite stations, a gross motor and movement room to run, jump and climb as well as an enclosed baby space.

A range of baby/toddler/adult groups and classes are also on offer.

Please email rachel@letsrockthespectrum.com with any questions or to get tickets.

To donate visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/presents-for-xmas-party

To donate books visit https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2M05NMO2E83EA?ref_=wl_share

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