Leisure can be just as important for autistic people as formal academic presentations. We will have a period each afternoon for scheduled leisure workshops. There will also be free time in the afternoons to do activities of your choosing. In the evenings, structured discussions or informal social activities are available. Most unstructured leisure activities are available during workshops and lectures as well, for those who choose not to attend.
Leisure Sessions (non-verbal workshops)
We will be offering some formal/instructed leisure sessions, which could also be considered non-verbal workshops (although the are not completely non-verbal, they are not word-based in the way lectures and workshops are), for those who are interested.
Free Time
On the second and third day there will be some free time after the scheduled workshops have ended for the day and before supper at 6:30.
Autscape participants can sign up for different free time activities if they like, or use the time to socialise or have some time to yourself. Most free time activities are always available as long as there is space. (During workshops, all meeting rooms will be in use.) Attendance at workshops is purely optional.
Quiet Time
In the busy and people-filled days at Autscape, don't forget to take some low-stimulus time to rest, relax, and gather yourself for the next activity. Much of the grounds around the venue are available for walking in as is the surrounding area, Giggleswick is about ten minutes away and Settle (a small town) about two miles away. There is enough space that if you need some time alone, it should be possible to get far enough away from everyone for a while. The quiet room, in which no interaction or unnecessary noise is allowed, is available at all times during Autscape. Of course you can also relax on your own in your room, in the grounds, or anywhere outside the venue.
Physical Activity
There should be a playing field or garden behind one of the accommodation blocks which we can use for physical activity.
Computer and Video
If you bring a laptop, we hope to be able to offer access to the Internet via WiFi. We will be bringing some autism-related videos and DVDs which can be viewed during Autscape. You may also bring along something you would like to watch.
Socialising
While it may be quite averse to some people, others will enjoy socialising with other participants. Just be sure to respect the Interaction Control Badges. You may find someone who shares interests or experiences with you, but if you don't, try not to take it as anything more significant than just having unusual tastes. For those who like socialising with a little more structure and a little less intensity, there may be board games such as chess or card games. Please feel free to bring any favourites you are willing to share.
Evenings
Each evening, there will be an area you can gather to socialise in and enjoy some drinks. We were unable to hire a bar this year so you will need to provide your own drinks. The village of Giggleswick is within walking distance of the venue, it has a couple of pubs and a village shop. The town of Settle is about two miles away.
In the evenings there will be various planned and unplanned discussions going on. Some will be structured and facilitated to help more reluctant communicators have their say on issues.