The Story Behind

Happy Brain Island

Children learning emotional regulation through drama-based sessions

At Happy Brain Island, we believe emotional wellbeing is just as crucial as academic learning.

In today’s world, children face challenges like never before, and it’s vital we equip them with the tools to manage their emotions, understand their feelings, and develop the skills they need to thrive.

Happy Brain Island comes from the makers of Play Phonics, which has been revolutionising the way children learn to read since 2013 - through their fun-packed weekly phonics drama sessions. Following a huge demand from schools and nurseries we are now thrilled to be bringing Happy Brain Island to children across London.

Emmy Siobhan is the creator of Happy Brain Island and Play Phonics (both part of The Learning Stage family).

Emmy is also a children’s TV writer (she has written on a new series - Playtime Towers coming to CBeebies this year!). After years of working in education, Emmy was approached by senior leaders in nurseries who recognised the growing challenges children were facing with their behaviour, concentration, and emotions—especially post-pandemic and with rising screen time. They asked her to create something that would support children in navigating and understanding their emotions and behaviour.

Emmy immediately knew this was a programme that children desperately needed and set to work researching and developing Happy Brain Island. Our unique programme combines drama, storytelling, and puppetry to create an immersive, fun-filled experience where children learn about their brains, their emotions, and the importance of emotional regulation.

Each week, children are introduced to a new social skill—such as listening, empathy, or sharing—that helps them understand that all emotions are okay to feel, it’s how we handle them that matters. Our dynamic, adventure-based approach equips them with the tools to manage big feelings in healthy ways, while also empowering them with the basic knowledge of how their brains work. These skills lay the foundation for emotional wellbeing today and into adulthood.