Mini me activity

What is a mini me?

A mini me uses creative art and crafts to help people create small versions of themselves or characters, then use these to explore their hopes, dreams, and ideal futures.

Why use this method?

• Highly personalised
• Hands-on creativity
• Non-verbal expression
• Makes dreams visible
• Fun and engaging
• Creates a lasting reminder
• Opens conversations
• Celebrates individuality

What you'll need

Essential materials

• Blank little people figures
• Coloured paper and card
• Coloured markers and pens
• Glue sticks
• Scissors
• Magazines
• Plain paper
• Stickers
• Decorative items

Support materials

• Communication aids
• Visual examples
• Sensory items
• Break cards
• Inspiration boards
• Question prompts

Running a session

Creating mini mes (30 to 45 minutes)

Preparation

• Set up a craft area
• Arrange materials
• Show examples
• Create a quiet space
• Check accessibility

Making process

1. Choose a blank figure
2. Add features: hair, clothes, accessories, expression
3. Personalise with favourite colours, special items, unique features, and personal style

Dream life creation (45 to 60 minutes)

Setting the scene

• Large paper background
• Choice of locations
• Different activities
• Various options
• Future possibilities

Elements to include

1. Living situation: type of home, location, who with, support needed
2. Activities: work or study, hobbies, social life, sports or exercise, creative interests
3. Important people: family, friends, support workers, community members, pets
4. Support needs: daily help, equipment, services, transport, technology

Discussion prompts

Personal dreams

• "Where would you like to live?"
• "Who would live with you?"
• "What would you do each day?"
• "Who would help you?"
• "What makes you happy?"

Future planning

• "What job interests you?"
• "What skills do you need?"
• "Where would you go?"
• "Who would support you?"
• "What might change?"

Making it accessible

Adaptations

• Pre-cut clothing
• Ready-made features
• Photo options
• Digital versions
• Texture additions
• Sensory elements

Support methods

• Choice boards
• Visual examples
• Step-by-step guides
• Helper support
• Alternative materials
• Different sizes

Alternative activity: character creation

Creating new characters

1. Choose a blank figure
2. Invent a person: name, age, personality, background and interests

Building their story

1. Where they live
2. What they do
3. Who they know
4. Their dreams
5. Their challenges
6. Their achievements

Success tips

1. Offer plenty of choice
2. Allow creativity
3. Accept all ideas
4. Give enough time
5. Provide inspiration
6. Celebrate diversity
7. Support expression
8. Value all dreams

Common themes to watch for

Living arrangements

• Independent living
• Shared housing
• Family homes
• Support needs
• Location preferences

Activities and work

• Employment hopes
• Study interests
• Hobby choices
• Social activities
• Community involvement

Support preferences

• Type of help needed
• Who provides support
• When support is needed
• How support is given
• What works well

Recording and using

During the session

• Photograph creations
• Note key points
• Record discussions
• Capture quotes
• Document themes

After the session

• Create displays
• Share appropriately
• Use in planning
• Review themes
• Show impact

Extension ideas

Digital mini mes

• Online avatars
• Photo stories
• Video diaries
• Digital collages
• Animation

Group activities

• Mini me community
• Shared stories
• Future town
• Dream school
• Perfect day

Remember, every mini me represents real hopes and dreams.