New after school club launched in Horsham to help with children’s mental wellbeing

Amy Spencer, from Horsham, and Amy Peck, from Slinfold, launched TNT Confident Kids last week for KS1 and KS2 children between the ages of five and 11.

Whilst having lots of fun, the ladies are aiming to boost confidence and self-esteem in the children, improve their social skills, reduce anxiety, give them better resilience, increase their creativity and leave them feeling happy and productive.

Amy Spencer said: “I’m the founder and owner of TNT Parties, a local children’s party entertainment business, and my step-sister is mum of three children aged six, ten and 14.

“We’ve heard about and experienced first-hand the serious impact Covid-19 and lockdown has had on children’s mental wellbeing, and we’ve been looking at ways we can help.

“The activity club focuses on building confidence, and improving life skills through fun and engaging activities. We want to create a relaxed but playful environment for the children, giving them the tools they need to rebuild, in a way they can understand and enjoy.

“There will be a weekly life skill topic – listening, forgiveness, self expression, perseverance etc – that will be discussed and explored through a range of dance, drama and art activities, as well as ‘just for fun’ games, mindfulness exercises and reflection projects for all round feel good vibes.”

Currently, the sessions run on Tuesdays at Barns Green Village Hall from 4.25pm to 5.25pm for KS1 children (ages five to seven) and from 5.35pm to 6.35pm for KS2 (ages seven to 11); and on Wednesdays at Holbrook Tythe Barn in Horsham from 4pm and 5pm for KS1 children (ages five to seven) and between 5.10pm and 6.10pm for KS2 (ages seven to 11).

The ladies hope to add more depending on demand.

“Our first week was a huge success; our feedback has been fantastic,” said Amy Spencer.

“There were lots of smiles, giggles and happy faces. It was so lovely to have some normality back for the children, and us!

“We’re both youth mental health first aiders with a deep interest in mental wellbeing. Combined with our love of working with children, we are really passionate about starting this.”

A free trial session per child is being offered.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/tntconfidentkids

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