The new storytelling podcast that teaches children about neurodiversity

A Children’s story podcast that highlights the traits young people may see in those with #ADHD, #Dyslexia and #Dyspraxia has launched in the UK.

‘Poppy and Zander in Zen Forest’ sees Poppy the Polar Bear and Zander the Gander being best friends and living unconventionally in a forest environment despite their animal types.

Written by award winning author Jimmy Docherty, Equazen, and aimed at four to seven-year-olds, Poppy and Zander take on five adventures in the series alongside guest animal friends including Big Andy the Stag, Lottie the Otter and Franco Squirelli.

Instead of Zen Forest being a dark and scary place where animals creep around in the darkness, this forest is the opposite. It is a large friendly forest where all children hear is laughter and is home to some more unusual animals and partnerships, including a polar bear and a goose exploring life together and navigating challenging adventures.

A spokesperson for Equazen who produced the series said:

“The Poppy and Zander podcasts and downloadable books aim to challenge the norm for children at a young age to grow an understanding that friends may be different to you or other children may live or learn in a different way to you – and, most importantly, that people being different enhances the world we live in.

“This is to reflect neurodiverse children and families, with neurodiversity covering all those diagnosed with ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia.”

Dr Tony Lloyd, CEO of the ADHD Foundation commented on the five-part series:

“Around one in five people in the UK has a neurodiverse condition, with many now diagnosed in childhood thanks to increased awareness amongst parents, schools and healthcare professionals of symptoms.

“Therefore, it is so important that we teach children about neurodiversity at a young age to encourage an inclusive environment. Storytelling through podcasts and books such as Poppy and Zander in Zen Forest is a great way to teach children these important life lessons in a fun way.”