Puppets are teaching children in North West communities how to manage the struggle of mental health after the disastrous February flood event.
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A puppet show called The Sunshine After the Flood will tour Julia Creek, Richmond and Hughenden in September to help kids process what happened during the flood and how to prepare for the upcoming wet season.
The show is a collaboration between child psychologist Carolyn Seri and singing teacher Tracey Osmond who are helping children aged 2-10 years to build resilience and good mental health.
"I think some youth are beginning to feel anxious about the upcoming wet season," Ms Osmond said.
"Some are worried that when it rains again that it will flood, we want to give these kids fun coping strategies to help their anxiety and mental health."
The current show, The Sunshine After the Flood is based on the ZingPinMe crew which are made up of four furry puppets.
"Myself and Miss Seri teach the puppets about their emotions, how to identify, measure and manage them," Ms Osmond said.
"We introduce a range of fun strategies through memorable songs and visuals.
"These strategies and tools are based on what Miss Seri introduces to kids in their first few visits at her clinical child psychology practice. She has so much fun at work she wanted to make this available to children all over the country."
Ms Osmond said in today's fast-paced world, young ones were being impacted more than ever by everyday stresses.
"There is a growing number of mental health issues being diagnosed in young children in the Australian population. Unfortunately, there is a gap in our mental health care system, leaving families often on long waiting lists or their location acting as a barrier for help.
"With a recent Queensland natural disaster of major flooding in regional, remote and rural areas we have crafted a fun and educational show with resources to leave with the organisation or school to help continue the learning experience long after they have visited.
"After we leave children, parents and teachers can continue to enjoy our music and resources that are part of the Puppet Show Pack."
The show will be at Julia Creek State School on September 17, Richmond State School on September 18 and Hughenden at Diggers Entertainment Centre on September 19. Please contact Caroline at caroline@zingpinme.com for further information.
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Samantha Campbell
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
