karen

Hi, I recently made the Easter bunnies with this activity, To see the shape more clearly I trimmed the curled paper down. The heart shape would be fine with the original instructions. The bunnies are on display and look really terrific.
Cheers
Karen ( AO)
Amaroo Aged Care

Barbara, could you give the list of ingredients and quantities for your Italian dip? Cheers

In our garden area we have 3 raised garden beds. One for succulents, then herbs and finally flowers. A few residents help to look after these and other just enjoy being outside. I always tell them afternoon tea is included...The area is enjoyed by staff and families. Also we have a small vege patch built by the local High School boys. The tomatoes and basil are growing like mad, told staff to pick them regularly to keep them growing. Finally its a pleasure to have this special area!

We are celebrating Chinese New year for 2019. Could you show posters etc for the Year of Pig? Thanks

Hi Robyn, on a slightly practical note. Have you seen a job description for your position?. Your manager should have this. You need to have the chat about what is expected otherwise it can be all consuming and really overwhelming. I have worked as an AO for over 15 years and a school teacher before that. AO's need to be organised but have an idea where they are heading with residents and activities. You will also need support from staff and management.Good luck and be prepared to ask.
Cheers
Karen
AO Amaroo Aged Care

Hi
I have a garden area outside our facility. I have found taking a small group of residents outside in the fresh air, sunshine, they are calmer. They can listen to the birds, help plant new plants , water the garden or just enjoy morning tea. I enjoy reminiscing with them about their gardens or what they did outside at their place. Good luck !!

Cheers

Karen Hynds AO

Hi
Could we please have the flag for Sth Korea re the Winter Olympics?. Also, do you have a template for the games in Pyeong Chang this year?. Thank you for a great site.
Cheers
Karen

Hi ,I love Paris and France so I'm looking at your Bastille Day party activities. Like the idea of the French artist- very French street appeal!! We have fun theme days so I'll be planning our Vive-la -France party for July. Better get the" Bernina" out to run up a few checked tablecloths and some old wine bottles with the melted candles! Cheers!
Bon Soir
Karen
AO in Newcastle NSW.

I have laminated my A4 bird photos then either cut them into 1/3rds or 1/4. I demonstate to my Special Needs / Dementia residents how to put the puzzle back together. I then help them have a turn . Gradually they can try themselves. I often find they can be involved in reminiscing or 1:1 chats. Make sure the photos are large enough for the vision impaired residents. While this activity is happening I play my" NZ native bird song" CD, , the nurses are "crazy" for this CD!!

While sorting out my activity boxes that are used with our Special Needs residents, I found my marbles/rubber bath mat activity. Turn the bath mat over and you have lots of rubber suction cups.With the resident, I then demonstate placing a marble on several suction cups. We also talk about the different sized/coloured marbles and make patterns. It's quite a relaxing activity as they watch/focus on the marbles.Also, I purchase boxes for each activity, label them and keep track of their contents. If staff wish to use them when AO's are not working, I remind them to return to the trolley when finished with. It's a shame if your hard work is misplaced. Education is key.Cheers all!