Focused Kids

FocusedKids™ is a simple curriculum of exercises developed for ages 3-8 that teaches kids, parents, and teachers about their brains, and the skills for self-regulation. The unique thing about the FocusedKids approach is that we use puppets to represent three parts of the brain. Children learn what each one does, and how to help them work together. This delights, intrigues, and empowers kids to obtain mastery over their behavior and emotions. The other concept that sets the program apart, is the use of the “calm down basket” both in the classroom and at home. The basket holds tools that help children calm down and focus their attention any time they need it, without distracting others. This supports the development of the crucial skills of self-regulation.

Kathy Hegberg has been a child and family therapist for 25 years, using Gestalt play therapy as a primary intervention.  In 2011 she began working with the MindUP program, learning how to teach kids about their brain, and developing a curriculum for parents.  When she created FocusedKids four years ago, her work with MindUP and the use of their materials in my practice with kids convinced her that learning about the brain and using mindful techniques was invaluable and very empowering to growing children.