Professionals:
Almost all children have some emotional, behavioural or relational problems at some point during their years of maturation. The standard Western answer to such problems is to define children as disturbed and to suggest that there is something wrong with the way the parents are raising them. This is not the only way to perceive children’s problems. A far superior and much more optimistic alternative is to explain children’s problems in terms of lagging psychosocial skills. This view calls for identifying skills that children need to develop in order to overcome their problems and helping children to learn them.
There is a legion of programs to teach psychosocial skills to children. Not all of them work. In order for such programs to be effective they need to match the way children view the word – rather than the way in which experts view the world. Kidzmix is a delightful program that does just that. It speaks the language of the ‘natives’ and teaches kids the core skills that they need in order to get along with their peers as well as with themselves.
I wish this tried and tested program will spread around the world, not only to improve the quality of life of children but also to contribute to changing the way we perceive our children – not as little people to be diagnosed and needing professional treatment but as maturing human beings who benefit from developing skills that they need in order to enjoy their lives and to adjust well to their social environment.
Dr. Ben Furman, internationally renowned Child Psychiatrist, author of ‘Kids’ Skills’ and founder of the Helsinki Brief Therapy Centre, Finland.
Kidzmix is a fabulous programme that helps all children learn great skills about getting along with others and handling all those playground scenarios that happen every day. Kidzmix has an innovative – but practical approach – backed by sound psychological principles – and I have seen children’s lives turned around by the experience. And it’s also – very importantly – great fun, so the lessons learned are never forgotten. Helen also provides a fantastic parent education component which helps to keep the positive changes going once the programme is completed. All the parents to whom I have recommended Kidzmix say Helen is terrific. I would recommend Kidzmix to each and every child and parent.
Jenny Maughan, School Counsellor and Founder of The Crunchkin Crew: Puppets With A Purpose www.crunchkincrew.com.au
Parents:
Thanks for all your help; my daughter is doing very well. She is taking things a lot less seriously. Mother of 9 year old girl.
She came home from school and said: “Mum, after Kidzmix™, I’m not going to the library every day now; I’m playing with the kids on the playground. Mother of 10 year old girl
I wish someone had taught me those skills when I was a child! Numerous
He has formed some wonderful friendships and has learned to be more tolerant of others. I cannot thank you enough for your input and assistance in this regard. Father of 8 year old boy
My child attended the Kidzmix™ Program and his teacher commented on how impressed she had been with the mature, calm way that he handled a couple of “uncomfortable” situations. He told me he had learnt a lot of tips on your course; so, well done! Father of 10 year old boy.
Children: “What I’ve Learned”:
To keep sticking up for myself (boy 10 yrs)
How to make more friends (girl 9 yrs)
How to talk to people (girl 10 yrs)
Self confidence (boy 10 yrs)
To fit in, have fun and do my best (girl 11 yrs)
That having friends is better than not having friends (boy 12yrs)
How to stop bullies taking over my life (boy 8 yrs)
How to let Sillyness not punch me in the face (boy 7 yrs)
How to ignore Sillyness (boy 8 yrs)
How to anticipate and participate (girl 12 yrs)
How to calm myself down when I’m feeling angry (girl 8 yrs)
How to join in games (girl 7 yrs)
