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

05/11/2026

“I was saddened to read in the paper this morning The Kerryman Stephen Fernane that some of the handmade pieces from the Kilflynn Enchanted Fairy Festival were lost in a fire. As an adult the news was upsetting so would definitely keep it from little ears. From hand-painted barrels, magical floats and to giant doors, you can see the care that went into the pieces made over the years. Absolutely stunning creations as you can see in pictures.

When I think back on the trail, I think of all the people in and around Kilflynn who gave their time, their skills, and their imagination to bring it to life. They could take something as ordinary as a barrel and turn it into something a child would stop, look at and smile..

Children were always at the heart of the festival. If a child asks about the news, keep it simple and gentle and always focus on the rescuers. Reassure them that the fairies are safe and still visiting their gardens and collecting teeth. I wish the committee and the community hope as they find a way forward, in which I believe they will. Such a strong community ❤️

I spoke to Queen Pearl today and she said “ I hope that for years to come, children will still come to Kilflynn, spot a fairy door, and call someone over to see what they’ve discovered”

For thousands of children, the Fairy Festival was one of the highlights of their summer. As we talk about the fire be mindful of the children and their level of understanding. I believe in fairies, I do, I do…

27/10/2026

🎃 KEEP THE LIGHTS ON THIS HALLOWEEN… 🎃

Halloween has deep roots here in Ireland, stretching back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain — a time of stories, mystery, imagination and community.

And perhaps that is part of the magic we still need to hold onto.

For children, Halloween is so much more than sweets and costumes. It is a wonderful opportunity to play, to step into another character, to use their imagination and creativity, and even to explore fear from a safe distance.

For one night, a child can become the witch, the ghost, the superhero or the monster.

They can approach the scary house, knock on the door and face the terrifying Maleficent waiting on the other side — while knowing that Mam, Dad or another trusted grown-up is standing safely behind them. 🖤

Welcome the little monsters, witches and superheroes who have gathered all their courage to knock.

Give them the reaction they have been hoping for.

Because childhood, imagination and play are precious — and they do not last forever.

With the weather looking promising, I’m already looking forward to dressing up as Maleficent and welcoming all my little visitors again this Halloween. Every year some arrive a little nervous… and every year they seem to leave just a little bit braver.

Here’s to keeping imagination alive, preserving a little piece of our Irish Halloween magic, and creating communities where children feel they belong.

🎃🖤 Keep the lights on. Let them play. Let them imagine. Let them be brave.

11/10/2026

In Ireland, storytelling is part of our cultural inheritance.

I spent this weekend teaching therapeutic storytelling as part of my work with Children's Therapy Centre, exploring how stories can help children make sense of experiences that may be difficult to express directly.

We looked at stories such as The Children of Lir and The Salmon of Knowledge, alongside stories I have written over decades of practice.

A story can create just enough distance. A character can hold a feeling. A metaphor can carry an experience.

Stories carry culture and memory. They connect us to people, place and belonging, while offering children another way to make sense of their experiences.

After almost 30 years of working therapeutically with children, I still see the power of story again and again.

Sometimes the story is where the healing begins.

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20/06/2026

On the eve of the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year and a celebration of light, I wanted to share a project that is very close to my heart.

The Hidden Light is a magical fairytale and immersive audio experience created by Radio Kerry and students from the Kerry College Digital Journalism, Podcasting and Radio course.

Created to support children navigating challenges such as anxiety, bereavement, bullying, health difficulties, or neurodiverse journeys, the story follows three young adventurers—Cian, Fionnuala, and Saoirse—as they journey across the Kingdom of Kerry in search of The Hidden Light.

As a child and adolescent psychotherapist, I wanted to help create a story that draws on the power of imagination, play, and awe. Experiences of wonder can help children build resilience, make sense of difficult emotions, and discover strengths they may not yet know they possess.

The Summer Solstice is a reminder that light exists even after periods of darkness. That message sits at the heart of this story—that hope, courage, and healing can be found, even in life’s most challenging moments.

As we celebrate the light around us, may we also remember the hidden light that exists within every child.

✨ Every child carries a hidden light. Sometimes they just need help finding it.

The Hidden Light Project is a fairytale created by Kerry College/Radio Kerry students from the Digital Journalism, Podcasting and Radio.

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