Our approach
Sunny Kids Shine is an award-winning, tools-based mental health and wellbeing service. Our programs are not a form of therapy intended to ‘fix’ or change you or your children in any way, and it is essential to us that children know there is nothing wrong with them. Everyone has feelings; every feeling is okay, and we can all find our feelings tricky at times. That’s part of being human. Big feelings get smaller when you get to know them and yourselves, just as you are, equipped with the confidence, resilience and contentment to SHINE your beautiful light from the inside out.
"Our feelings form a rainbow within, and feelings come and go. Everybody has them, and it’s ok to let them show. Sometimes, they need a little help, a listening ear to share. Other times they need you to say, hello, I feel you there.” - Jodie Smart - Owner and Founder of Sunny Kids Shine
Our unique evidence-based programs are all about learning and growing together and are available to children, families and professionals alike. Children learn to N.A.M.E. every feeling in healthy ways, which stands for Notice, Accept, Manage and Express. We don’t believe in simply ‘fighting fires’ or ‘putting plasters on a problem.’ Instead, we work with a holistic approach to create a secure personal, social and emotional foundation from within and an emotionally enabling environment for all.
Our creative, colourful resources and teaching style captivate children, reducing anxiety and making sessions exciting, engaging and fun!
Our story
Welcome! I am so glad you stopped by to learn more about me.
My name is Jodie Smart, and I am the creator of Sunny Kids Shine ®, which I founded in 2018 to support children in growing up to be secure, resilient, and content young people. I previously worked in education for over ten years, helping children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties (SEMH) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) - both in mainstream and special provisions. My education includes a BA (Honours) in Childhood Development and Youth Studies, a Mindfulness for Children Diploma and British Sign Language. I also regularly update all Enhanced DBS checks (Disclosure and Barring Service) and CPD (Continuing Professional Development) training. These include training in safeguarding, child protection, trauma, sensory processing, SEND and inclusion, and other areas of relevance and interest.
I used my experience, research, knowledge, and comprehensive understanding to develop the Feelings Detective® model. This program incorporates elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) teamed with the foundations of Emotional Intelligence, Social Skills, Prosocial Behaviours, Self-Love, Kindness, and so much more!
“Whilst we cannot predict the future for our children, we can equip them with the tools they need to shine through any storms they may face - as secure, resilient and content young people.”
Let's work together for a brighter future and help every child SHINE feeling Secure, Healthy, Independent, Nurtured, and Empowered!
