New storytelling podcasts teach children about Parkinson's

We've supported a Manchester-based creative arts organisation, called Made By Mortals CIC, to create new episodes of their Armchair Adventures podcast.

The podcasts help children aged 6 to 10 understand Parkinson’s in a fun, accessible and imaginative way.

The new episodes were developed with the support and guidance of people living with Parkinson’s, as well as carers and loved ones.

Across the adventure, listeners join Chief Adventurer Connie, her Nanna Debs and a gang of explorers as they travel to "Planet Exercise".

The musical world includes different ways to move, from gentle stretching to energetic dancing, and along the way, they discover that exercise can look and feel different for everyone.

Inspired by Nanna Debs’ Parkinson’s diagnosis, the adventure follows Connie’s desire to help her stay well, leading to a heartfelt journey about understanding change, listening to others, and learning how to support people living with the condition.

Through storytelling, music and movement, the series helps children and families explore Parkinson’s in a child-friendly way, understanding how it can affect movement and daily life, and why staying active can help.

Andy Smith, Artistic Director at Made By Mortals, said:

"Armchair Adventures is all about turning real experiences into joyful, imaginative stories for families. 

"Working with Parkinson’s UK and people living with Parkinson’s has helped us create something that feels both playful and truthful, helping children understand a complex condition in a way that’s accessible and reassuring. 

"Partnerships like this are vital to what we do, they make sure the stories we tell are not only creative, but genuinely meaningful."

Helen Sturman, Area Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK, said:

"We're really excited about the launch of this Armchair Adventures episode.

"Explaining Parkinson's to children isn't always easy, and this is a fun way to help them understand how it can affect people.

"A big thank you to everyone with Parkinson's who shared their experiences of living with Parkinson’s in the making of the story."

Physical activity can help people to live well with Parkinson’s

Being active can be one of the best ways to live well with a long term health condition, such as Parkinson’s. Some of the benefits can include:

• improved balance and coordination
• better strength, flexibility and mobility
• improved sense of wellbeing and mindfulness
• better memory and cognitive skills
• greater social interaction
• improved speech and communications skills.