This highly practical resource introduces the concept of ‘Gymtherapy’; a pioneering approach to working with children that uses movement as a means of promoting emotional wellbeing. Gymtherapy brings together the physical and emotional benefits of activity alongside the importance of safeguarding and supporting children, particularly those who are socio-economically deprived or emotionally vulnerable.

Written in an accessible and vibrant style, Gymtherapy provides a full programme of lesson plans, structured across five key areas: Identity and Self Esteem, Mindfulness, Anger Expression, Protective Behaviour and Gender Stereotypes. Each lesson plan is based on accessible, tried and tested strategies, and outlines learning objectives, equipment needed and step-by-step instructions for facilitating practical activities. The chapters are illustrated with engaging real-life examples, case studies, survivor stories and tips, while at the same time linking practice to the underpinning social theory.

Gymtherapy is an invaluable guide for teachers, social workers, school leaders and anyone with an interest in providing for the welfare and wellbeing of the children they work with.

Rebekah Pierre is the founder of a social enterprise named Gymtherapy and is a practising social worker, working as part of a safeguarding team for a Local Authority in London. A music graduate, dancer and linguist, Rebekah is passionate about using a variety of artistic disciplines to approach social-emotional issues from a creative angle. Rebekah has worked as a choreographer, musician and educator in the UK, Canada, Spain and Chile – experiences which bring cultural diversity to the forefront of her work and helped her develop the holistic Gymtherapy service from scratch.