Sky Kids announces new wellbeing commissions
July 6, 2021
Sky Kids has unveiled new line-up of shows to help kids better understand their mental health and wellbeing.
The new commissions include Sky Kids original series Clam Brain starring Frankie Bridge, which will give kids tips and tricks to calm their minds and get their bodies active, as well as a second season of nature and mindfulness series, Dreamflight, which features soothing stories narrated by stars including Dame Julie Walters and Russell Tovey.
Sky Kids will also feature the government’s Youth Mental Health Ambassador, Dr Alex George in a series of five films developed with the Department for Education. These films will run throughout the summer on the popular Sky Kids news show FYI: For Your Info called What’s On Your Mind? Each segment will highlight the importance of being physically and mentally healthy, which coincides with the Department for Education’s efforts in raising mental health and wellbeing awareness in schools in the UK, which includes introducing a new part of the national curriculum on mental health.
Commenting on her new show, Bridge said: “It’s so important to have open conversations with our kids about how they are feeling. As parents we obsess about our kids brushing their teeth and eating right, but mental health needs active care too. As a parent I know the topic can be daunting, so I’m thrilled to be part of the all new Sky Kids series Clam Brain, a show which promotes mental wellbeing for the whole family, with guided exercises and practical advice from experts, as well as a host of adorable animated friends who make it fun and accessible for all ages.”
George said: “I’m so proud and excited to share these videos on wellbeing today which build on content already in the school curriculum. They’ll be free for summer schools and holiday clubs, and I can’t wait to see them in action – because being able to reach out in a safe and understanding environment has never been more important, and all children need to know that their mental health matters.”
Lucy Murphy, Director of Kids Content, Sky UK and Ireland, commented: “There is this cultural ideal that our childhoods should be carefree, but the reality is no matter your age there are emotional challenges to face. At Sky we recognise the impact the pandemic has had on families and we’re really proud to be commissioning shows that shine a spotlight on mental wellbeing and offer kids practical exercises from experts that can help them navigate this hectic world in which we live.”
All three Sky Kids Original commissions will be available on Sky and streaming service NOW. What’s On Your Mind will air weekly from July 10th as part of FYI: For Your Info, meanwhile all episodes of Clam Brain will be released on demand from July 12th and the second season of Dreamflight from September.