The Little Explorers Activity Club CIC is an autism friendly activity club based in East Farndon, Leicestershire. We have created a safe and understanding environment to have fun and socialise with other families. The main beneficiary groups who will benefit from the club are children on the autistic spectrum and their families, carers, people with mental health difficulties, people with disabilities. The age ranges from young children to their parents and grandparents. We are addressing the following issues – education, training, respite, health & wellbeing, rural/agricultural, arts & culture, social isolation and a stronger community/cohesion.

Our innovative project using aquaponics creates academic learning opportunities, independence and a deeper understanding of nature.

We are currently fundraising for the next stage of our Project, to develop an Aquaponics Workshop and Cooking Space. https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/thelittleexplorersactivityclub

Aquaponics is a combination of aquaculture and hydroponics where the natural nitrogen cycle of fish in the water is used to create fertile nutrient rich food for the plants to grow. The plants are then fed to the animals or used for cooking at the club. Introducing food chains, life cycles, habitats… sciences, maths, english and geography… to the children in this stress free environment guiding them to explore making their own discoveries.

Our little Club maybe small but we do have a massive reach, last year we were interviewed for the Open University Course on Autism to help others understand our methods and approach. The Little Explorers has been working in conjunction with the Leicester University on the Dream Project to understand the ethics behind using robotics to help Autistic children and their families. We are always open to new ideas and approaches and will support research projects around the world.