Kidsflix is life-changing for many children and their families, and none more so than the Leese family.
Six-year-old Elliot lives with autism, is nonverbal and has a moderate intellectual disability, but his loving parents Mary and Shane are determined to create memories for him and their five other children.
“For a long time, Elliot didn’t like going out in public and he didn’t like people looking at him, just going into a shopping centre would make him break down on the floor,” Mary said.
“This really restricted us as a family; we would have to split up and someone would have to stay behind with Elliot just so he wouldn’t have a meltdown.”
Mary eventually put in an application for an assistance dog and six months ago Alfred arrived, which has been life-changing. Having Alfred has helped Elliot confidently attend public places, including Kidsflix.
A sensory-friendly and inclusive experience, Kidsflix is purposely designed to ensure children with many different health challenges (more than just arthritis) don’t miss out and parents can relax and connect with other families in similar situations.
“Having an event like Kidsflix for families with special needs children is like a breath of fresh air,” Mary said.
“It means I can take my family out in public all together, leaving no one behind where we can enjoy ourselves and do something everyone else does.
“It means I don’t have to worry about leaving early or missing half of the event because Elliot is too loud or disrupting others. Because I know the families there are in a similar position and understand the few extra challenges when a special child is involved.
“My husband and I have taken our kids twice now and they left with huge smiles on their faces; they loved the movie but also the before-show entertainment like the bubble machine and face painting.”
With Alfred by his side, Elliot bravely had his face painted for the very first time, something Mary was incredibly proud of.
“He worked through being uncomfortable around someone he didn’t know and managed his big emotions while someone was touching his face. He loved looking at the rainbow painted on his face once it was done,” Mary said.
For Mary, she was able to relax, knowing that if Elliot did yell out or pull away, she would be met with understanding and compassion from all staff at Kidsflix.
“Everyone was smiling and willing to assist and help which helped me to relax and enjoy the event. For me, it was also nice to be able to treat my children especially being a large family, our budget can be tight,” Mary said.
Kidsflix spreads joy to families in South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. If you would like to help more kids access this special program, click here.