Playing a starring role for autistic children this Christmas

The Little Stars appeal, launched by the North East Autism Society (NEAS), aims to raise £5,000 to support the play sessions, which have been described as a “lifeline” by parents of autistic and neurodivergent children.

As well as raising vital funds to provide the toddler groups, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of early intervention for autistic children.

The appeal has been warmly welcomed by the families of autistic children who have benefited from toddler groups already established by NEAS, and run by trained practitioners.

(Image: NEAS)
Teesside mum Lyndsey Morgan, who has two autistic children – Rosie, 12, and eight-year-old Ralph – said: “NEAS is a fantastic charity, providing vital support for families, and these groups are a lifeline.”

Lyndsey, who runs her own business as a make-up artist, attended a group in Billingham when Ralph was a toddler.

“It gave us somewhere to go where we could be accepted and feel comfortable,” she added. “Just being among other parents who understand the challenges, and to have the support of staff who are experts, means so much.

Lyndsey Morgan with her son Ralph (Image: NEAS)

“My husband, Lee, is a teacher who works long hours and I’m running the business, so it’s a really busy life. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without having access to that group and the support it provided.

“That’s why Little Stars is such an important appeal and I would urge anyone to give it as much support as possible.”

Janine Mooney, from Tynemouth, has spoken about the impact attending one of the groups has had on her autistic little boy, Jack.

Janine Mooney with son Jack (Image: NEAS) “There’s been a huge difference in Jack,” she said. “His communication, his socialising, his interaction, even his speaking and how he plays with toys – just everything,” she said.

Liam McDonnell says “it feels like Christmas” when one of his twin daughters – Aliza and Aya – come out with a new word or skill they’ve learned at a NEAS parent-and-toddler group in Newcastle.

“They get to run around and be themselves. They learn things, they play, they paint, they get messy, and I’ve noticed a lot of development,” added Liam.

• To find out more about support the Little Stars appeal, go to: www.ne-as.org.uk/little-stars-appeal

As well as making direct donations, supporters can also get involved in special events in support of the appeal.

These include a Festive Bake-Off to tie in with the conclusion of the Great British Bake-Off on November 26, and a Jolly Jumper Day on December 12.

Meanwhile, a ‘Gift A Star’ initiative encourages supporters to make a donation in a loved-one’s name as a ‘Secret Santa’ gift or in lieu of sending Christmas cards.

NEAS Chief Executive John Phillipson said: “Our parent-and-toddler groups are invaluable in terms of children’s development and providing expert support for parents and carers, which is why we’ve made them the focus of this year’s Christmas appeal.

“By making a donation, no matter how small, you are guaranteed to make a difference.”