New programme to help Kilkenny schoolkids deal with stress and anxiety

AN innovative new programme is teaching schoolkids in Kilkenny how to cope with everyday stresses and anxiety.

Relax Kids Kilkenny is offering community classes during the school term to teach children self-regulation and resilience to support their own emotional well-being.

The upcoming programme, Fantasy Funland Adventures, begins on Thursday, May 2 and runs over six classes. The class is held at Marble City Physiotherapy and promotes positive thinking and relaxation. The aim is to teach children the tools and techniques to help them deal with overwhelming emotions or anxiety.

Relax Kids Coach Gillian Coady also offers the programme to schools, and has had glowing reviews from children, parents and teachers. Recently she worked with the children of Kilmoganny N.S., Skeoughvosteen N.S. and Graiguenamanagh Boys N.S.

Gillian told KilkennyNow.ie: “When kids are having fun they are in a much better position to learn. Fun is an integral part of our classes.”

Gillian has a primary degree in Social Work, and a Clinical Diploma in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Clinical Hypnotherapy and Life Coaching. Her passion is to help people be the best versions of themselves.

“Having worked in the mental health services, I am really passionate about prevention, and it’s becoming more and more obvious that anxiety in kids has been increasing,” Gillian added.

Gillian said her classes are for all children, and not just for those coping with anxiety. During the class she takes them through seven steps: Move, Play, Stretch, Feel, Breathe, Believe and Relax.

She also teaches the children about their feelings and emotions through the use of puppets.
“By giving them the information, you are giving them power. Once a child understands what’s happening in their body, automatically you are giving them control over what’s happening for them,” Gillian said.

For more information, you can contact Gillian directly on 087 777 8668, or visit the Relax Kids Kilkenny Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RelaxKidsKilkenny/