For Educators

What age group is the program designed for?

Sparky and Shady for Early Years – Five Things to Be Happy and Well is designed for children aged 3 to 7 years. It’s ideal for preschool, daycare, Kindergarten, and Year 1 settings, and can be easily adjusted for mixed-age groups.

How does Sparky and Shady align with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), NSW PDHPE Syllabus and the Australian Curriculum?

The program is mapped to EYLF v2.0 learning outcomes, The NSW PDHPE Syllabus and the Australian Curriculum – General Capabilities (Personal and Social Capability). It supports children’s growth in self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and social management — the foundation skills for lifelong wellbeing.

How long does each lesson take, and how many lessons are there?

The program includes an Introduction plus five core lessons (nine short videos in total). Each session takes around 20–25 minutes, with optional creative or play-based follow-ups. Educators can deliver one or two lessons a week depending on their schedule.

Do I need any special training or qualifications to deliver the program?

No special training is required. The program is designed to be easy and flexible to use. Each lesson includes a short video, downloadable posters, notes, and a clear sequence of activities and discussion prompts. You can learn alongside your children (practical approach) or explore the materials in advance (extended).

Is the program evidence-based? What psychological theories underpin it?

Yes. Sparky and Shady draws on evidence-based psychological frameworks including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based CBT, Polyvagal Theory, and Attachment Theory. The program aligns with many concepts from humanistic psychology and positive psychology. These are presented through simple metaphors children can understand — helping them recognise emotions, self-regulate, and build resilience.

Can I use Sparky and Shady in both early learning centres and schools?

Yes. The program has been successfully used in early learning centres, preschools, and K–1 classrooms. The flexible design allows you to adapt the discussions and activities to suit your group’s developmental level and learning environment.

What materials are provided, and are they printable or digital?

You’ll receive everything you need online: instructions on how to use the program, videos, printable summary posters, strategy posters, stories, games, and reflection sheets. Posters and classroom resources are downloadable in PDF format for easy printing.

Can lessons be adapted for children with additional needs or diverse backgrounds?

Yes. The program was developed with inclusive practice in mind. Activities are visual, concrete, and language-supported (the videos have subtitles enabled), making them suitable for children with a range of learning, sensory, and communication needs. The universal language of Sparky and Shady is also culturally adaptable and non-religious. Sparky and Shady has been used successfully with EALD and First Nations students.

Does the program meet Be You’s social and emotional wellbeing framework?

Yes. Sparky and Shady aligns closely with Be You principles for promoting mental health and wellbeing in early learning settings. The updated program is currently being evaluated as part of Be You’s approved program list.

Is the program suitable for group learning, or can it be used one-on-one?

It works beautifully in both contexts. Most educators use it with small or whole-class sessions, but it can also be used individually to support children needing extra help with emotional awareness and self-regulation.

How can I include families in the learning process?

Every educator membership includes a set of free family access codes so parents and carers can watch the same videos and talk about Sparky and Shady at home. This ensures consistent language and shared understanding between home and school.

What ongoing support or professional development do educators receive?

Educators gain 9 hours of professional development through the program. Optional workshops, webinars, and printable follow-up materials are available to extend your learning. Ongoing updates and community support are included with your annual membership.

For Families

What is Sparky and Shady all about?

Sparky and Shady helps children understand their emotions and learn how to calm down, feel brave, and make kind choices. Sparky represents our wise, loving side, while Shady represents our protective, scared side. The program helps children discover that both are part of them and both are important.

How can I help my child use the ideas from the program at home?

Each family lesson includes short videos, posters, “Grownup Notes” and “Tricky Tips” that help you talk about feelings and wellbeing in everyday life. You don’t need to be an expert — just watch together, play, and use the same simple language (“Let’s ask Sparky for help”).

Is this a religious or spiritual program?

No. Sparky and Shady is a secular wellbeing program based on psychology, not religion. Sparky represents love, compassion, and wisdom — qualities that belong to everyone, no matter their background or beliefs.

What if my child has experienced trauma, loss, or anxiety — is it still suitable?

Yes. The program is gentle and affirming, focusing on safety, love, and connection. The program encourages children to talk to “a trusted grownup” to support them with painful thoughts and feelings.

How do I access the family videos and resources?

Your child’s educator will give you a unique coupon code. If your child’s centre or school does not have a membership, you can purchase one yourself for $440. Once you sign in, you can watch the videos and download the materials at your own pace.

Do I need to pay for access, or is it included through my child’s educator?

Access for families is free when your child’s educator has an active program licence. Educators receive a set number of family codes to share with parents and carers.

How much time does it take to do the lessons at home?

Each lesson video is around 5 minutes long, with optional activities that take 10–15 minutes. You can explore them together at any time — it’s about connection, not homework.

Will this program help my child with behaviour and emotional regulation?

Yes. Children learn to name their feelings, calm their bodies, and make thoughtful choices. Parents often notice improvements in empathy, confidence, and problem-solving as children start using the language of Sparky and Shady at home.

Can my older or younger child join in too?

Absolutely! The program is designed for ages 3–7, but many families find older siblings enjoy joining in — especially during Sparky and Shady conversations.

Who created Sparky and Shady, and why?

Sparky and Shady was created by Kathy Sheehan, an educator and psychology graduate passionate about children’s emotional wellbeing. The program grew from her belief that every child deserves to know they are loved, and that they can find calm, courage, and kindness inside themselves.