Making Smiles With More Inclusive Activities

Away from Keyboard: From Gaming Hub to Community Connection

Away from Keyboard (AFK) began as a dream sparked by Board Games and Battlegrounds, a community-driven retail gaming store that quickly became a hub for real-world connections. Through hosting game nights, tournaments, and workshops, it became clear there was a significant demand for inclusive, engaging spaces where people could disconnect from screens and reconnect with others. This realisation led to the birth of AFK, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to reducing social isolation and creating meaningful, hands-on experiences for all ages.

Hands-On, Inclusive Programs for Everyone

AFK offers a wide variety of workshops and activities tailored to engage children, youth, and adults in creative, interactive ways. From STEM-focused events to sensory-friendly sessions, our programs are designed to cater to diverse interests and needs.

• STEM Adventures:
  
  • Robotics Workshops: Build and program robots, blending creativity with coding and engineering.
  • 3D Printing and Design: Create and print 3D models, combining artistic and technological skills.
  • Science Exploration Days: Hands-on experiments that bring STEM concepts to life in fun and exciting ways.
• Speciality Theme Workshops:
  
  • Harry Potter Days: Dive into the wizarding world with potion-making, spell-casting, and themed games.
  • Lego Engineering Challenges: Use Lego to build imaginative structures and learn engineering concepts.
  • Pokémon Clubs: Interactive workshops for trading cards, playing games, and connecting over shared interests.
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• Slime-Making: A sensory-rich experience where participants create their own colourful, textured slime.
• Beado Crafts: Fun crafting sessions using beads to create unique designs and gifts.
• Candle-Making: Learn to make and decorate candles, blending creativity and relaxation.
• Sand Art: Explore and design a picture that is painted using colourful sand. 

• Spa Days: Craft self-care products like bath bombs and face masks while enjoying a calming atmosphere.
• Game Nights: Bring families and friends together with board games and team-based challenges.
• School Support Programs: From Pokémon Clubs to science days, we collaborate with local schools to deliver enriching, interactive experiences.

Why Away from Keyboard?

AFK is about more than just activities—it’s about fostering connections, reducing social isolation, and promoting wellbeing. Our programs are rooted in the belief that stepping away from technology can spark creativity, build confidence, and create lasting relationships. Research shows that prolonged screen time and social media use can negatively impact mental health, increasing anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. AFK provides an antidote: fun, inclusive environments where participants can engage IRL (in real life) and experience the joy of being part of a community.

From Gaming Hub to Lifelong Connections

What started as a passion for creating a sense of belonging at Board Games and Battlegrounds has grown into a broader mission to transform lives through connection and creativity. AFK continues to expand, offering opportunities for everyone—regardless of age, background, or ability—to feel included, inspired, and supported.

Join us in stepping Away from Keyboard to embrace hands-on learning, meaningful relationships, and unforgettable adventures IRL!