Edel Lawlor - Expressive Play Therapy and Training, Co. Kerry

07/06/2026

Join us July 14th, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm in Kilflynn Village for an experiential introduction to Sand Tray Therapy. Places are limited! This is always a popular training day, particularly for anyone working therapeutically with children or adults. Cost: €150. To book, text 0873836456.

‘In every grain of sand, there is a story waiting to be told.’

06/06/2026

“Give yourself the gift of time. On June 14th, join us at Expressive Play for Parent Reset Day! A full day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. dedicated to YOU—recharging, resetting, and reconnecting with your instincts through sand tray, symbols, clay, and art.

Spaces are limited, so text 087 383 6456 to book your spot. You can’t pour from an empty cup—let’s fill yours!”
Venue: Expressive Play, Kilflynn Village

23/04/2026

All Island Children’s Palliative Care Conference
Stronger Together: Fostering Resilience and Diversity

As I sat in a room filled with people doing such meaningful work with children and families, I was reminded of the words of Gary Landreth—words that have supported me many times in my own work, especially for those of you doing play therapy with children at end of life.

A day filled with excellent speakers, learning, and shared purpose.

Today, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill spoke about the future of palliative care—
increasing funding for hospice services,
supporting care at home where possible,
and the importance of balancing care across the country.

She also spoke about research and community—how so much of this work is done for people we may never meet, yet it matters deeply.

And she took a moment to acknowledge and thank everyone in the room, on behalf of the people of Ireland.

Here representing Recovery Haven Kerry, who do incredible work supporting people and families throughout Kerry.

A day of learning, reflection, and connection with like-minded people.
Grateful to be part of work that truly matters 🤍
Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House

02/02/2026

✨ Honored to meet President Catherine Connelly at Recovery Haven! 🎉 Her genuine interest in our work and the impact we make on the lives of children and families was truly inspiring.

Every opportunity to share the benefits of play therapy is a chance to highlight how it supports healing and growth. A huge congratulations to all the amazing team members at Recovery Haven for their dedication and hard work. Together, we are making a difference! 💖

RECOVERY Haven Kerry Cancer Support House welcomed President Catherine Connolly on a visit to the centre on Saturday marking a special and meaningful occasion for service users, volunteers, and staff. During her visit, President Connolly took time to meet with those who use Recovery Haven’s servic...

11/01/2026

A huge congratulations to all who just completed the Therapeutic Play Skills training Fetac Level 6. I am always blown away by the people who I cross paths with on this course. Ye truly are heart warming people who care about children.

23/11/2025

✨ What a Weekend! ✨🌟

I had an absolute blast presenting as a keynote speaker at the conference in Kilkenny this weekend! 🎤🎉 Huge thanks to all the amazing early childhood educators who welcomed me (and my puppet friends) with open arms. 🤗❤️

“Little Voices, Big Expressions: The Art of Creative Play” was a theme that truly resonated with all of us! 🎨👶 It was a joy to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the magic of creativity in early education.

Feeling inspired by all the wonderful connections and laughter we shared! Here’s to more playful moments and the art of teaching! 🌈💖

20/11/2025

If your a parent of a teen, Shonagh’s TEDx is definitely worth having a listen to, truly inspiring young lady. Shonagh has 24 hrs to get a thousand views, would love your support . Shonagh is my daughter and has such a powerful message for us adults ❤️❤️ TEDxTralee thank you James and Brian for supporting Shonagh on her journey as a TEDx speaker ye are amazing ❤️

This talk gives an honest look at the modern teenage girl’s reality—comparison, cyber-pressure, loneliness, and the constant search for acceptance in a world...

11/10/2025

Just heading home from the annual CAYAS conference hosted by Childhood Cancer Ireland, and I’m feeling so inspired! It was a day filled with connection, community, strength, and courage.

Hearing young people share their personal stories and parents discuss their struggles while maintaining a brave front for their children was truly moving. I felt honored to be in a room full of such remarkable courage.

As I sit on the train heading home, I can’t help but think about hospital corridors—where parents sometimes find a moment to catch their breath, drop their superhero capes for just a second, and then return to the bedside of their loved ones.

So lovely to meet all the other organisations working with childhood cancer and how passionate everyone is about helping children and their families.

Childhood Cancer Ireland Irish Cancer Society Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House Norma Foley - TD

29/09/2025

Behind the selfie 🤳 Who are we really ?🤔

I'm thrilled to share that my daughter, Shonagh, will be taking to the stage at the upcoming TEDxTralee event to share her story about life as a teenager in today’s society. I’m incredibly grateful for the fantastic team behind for their ongoing support and encouragement. Looking forward to this inspiring event and hearing all the other amazing speakers in October. All happening in Tralee, Co. Kerry!

TEDx Tralee 2025 Speaker✨

The Perfect Life of a Teenage Girl beautifully highlights Shonagh's inspiring journey. Her passions for public speaking, community service, and the joy she brings to children through the Kilflynn Enchanted Fairy Festival showcase her vibrant character.

Her love of the sea, fitness, and reading adds depth to her personality. Moreover, her awareness of the pressures faced by teenage girls in today's social media-driven world reflects maturity beyond her years.

Through her efforts, Shonagh embodies the type of female leadership that can guide young girls towards authenticity and connection. It's a compelling narrative of ambition, compassion, and growth!
Shonagh hopes her TEDx talk will give a voice to other teenage girls and help adult's understand the pressures they face everyday, often in silence behind the closed door of their bedroom.

Tickets available from www.tedxtralee.com

The Rose Hotel Kerry County Council Discover Kerry Tralee Chamber Tíre

09/09/2025