Sky Kids Commissions Focus on Mental & Physical Wellbeing

Sky Kids has unveiled a lineup of shows for the summer that are aimed at helping kids better understand their mental and physical health.

The new commissions include the 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. The channel has also ordered a second season of the nature and mindfulness series Dreamflight, which features soothing stories narrated by such stars as 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 Sky Kids news show FYI: For Your Info as What’s On Your Mind? Each segment will highlight the importance of being physically and mentally healthy.

All three Sky Kids original commissions will be available on Sky and streaming service NOW. What’s On Your Mind? will air weekly as part of FYI: For Your Info, starting July 10. All episodes of Clam Brain will be released on demand from July 12, and the second season of Dreamflight from September.

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 that 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.”

Dr. 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 at Sky UK and Ireland, said: “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 recognize 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.”

Nicolette Smallshaw, First News’ head of education, said: “First News is pleased to be working with Sky Kids and the Department for Education to support pupils’ wellbeing with Dr. Alex George. The consequences of the disruption to children’s lives during the pandemic could linger longer than the effects of the virus itself if we do not act now.”