Costume
Dressing up is enjoyed by adults and children alike and using costume not only reinforces a particular theme, but can encourage movement, unify a group or 'special' an individual. Ensure you have enough articles for everyone. Items should be easy to put on, especially for wheelchair users, so open-sided tabards are ideal. Never impose costume/accessories, just offer choices. For some participants it takes time, but eventually they come to enjoy, even demand their own hat, scarf or other item.
Wearing the same costume helps an individual feel part of the whole group, with shared aims and experiences.
Costume can help to reinforce a theme, whether that be a specific era, or country...
...or perhaps an occupation or event
Enable tactile exploration, for example by using furry hats, sparkly shower caps, feather boas, beads, bangles and bows
Encourage movement - scarves and sarongs can be used like streamers or flags enhancing and inspiring movement.
Reflect light by using white costumes so that colours or projections can be picked up on bodies and in UV.
Elicit role play, take on individual characters, or become part of a team e.g. of workmen/fishermen
Increase self-awareness, self-esteem and confidence with magic, mystery and fun!
The following gallery shows examples of various costume items we have found the most inspiring and easy to aquire/make/use.
Details are given on the pdf below
