NeuroArt Family Festival

We have the wonderful Miss Wicks joining us with her giant bubble wand! You'll also be able to catch her fluttering around the festival with colourful scented silks and double hula-hoops. Sure to be a sensory treat for all.

Join Kodjo for an imaginative, culturally rich mask-making experience rooted in connection, identity, and community expression. Kodjo invites participants to explore who they are through playful creativity and hands-on making. His workshop celebrates heritage, belonging, and the many ways we express ourselves beyond words — welcoming all ages and abilities to create something meaningful together.

( Dyslexia Early Intervention )

Join Mary for an informative and encouraging session for parents and families. With over 30 years of experience in learning support, dyslexia and literacy development, Mary shares practical guidance to help children build confidence and reach their full potential. Her approachable style focuses on recognising strengths, supporting individual learning needs and creating positive learning experiences for every child.

Visit the Bravehearts Club Portarlington desk to learn about their inclusive, community-based programme supporting people of all ages and abilities. The club offers adaptive sports and playful physical activities designed to build confidence, coordination, and enjoyment at every level.

Experience the healing power of rhythm in this inclusive community drumming session. Participants at the festival will play traditional djembe drums and percussion instruments together, creating shared rhythms that connect mind, body, and spirit. A welcoming, accessible activity where everyone can participate at their own pace. No experience necessary - all drums and adaptive supports provided.

Join Beta Franca for a creative, hands-on workshop where children are invited to explore the art of upcycling through transforming pre-loved scarves into unique pieces of wearable art. Rooted in the spirit of the My Brat Bhride project, this playful and inclusive session celebrates creativity, tradition, and community, making art accessible and enjoyable for all ages and abilities.

With Laois Sports Partnership, you will discover inclusive, fun-filled sports activities designed for all ages and abilities. Their team delivers adaptive games, movement challenges, and team-based activities that build confidence, celebrate ability, and encourage everyone to get active together. With supportive, trained coaches and all equipment provided, participants can try something new.

Join Eoin for an electrifying street-dance experience that blends popping, locking, animation, and pure funk. With over 15 years of global battle and performance experience, Eoin brings his signature style, rhythm, and showmanship to the festival.

Maureen Culleton leads a joyful celebration of Irish dance, music, and community spirit in a warm and welcoming setting. Known for making traditional dance accessible to all ages and abilities, she guides participants through simple céilí and set dances with clear, step-by-step instruction. These inclusive sessions focus on gentle movement, fun, and connection, creating a relaxed space where everyone can build confidence.

Get ready to experiment, explore, and discover with Midlands Science. Through hands-on activities, participants will investigate the power of magnets, create simple electrical circuits, and experience the excitement of a real Van de Graaff generator. This interactive workshop encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and creative thinking in a fun and engaging environment.

Join Marika Rea, creator of Mrs. Appleberry Press, for interactive storytime sessions filled with imagination, creativity, and self-expression. Through live readings and gentle conversations, children and families will explore stories that celebrate neurodiversity, individuality, and the joy of being yourself. Her warm, engaging approach encourages young readers to see themselves as the heroes of their own stories.

Join David Butler, animator, illustrator and creative storyteller, for an interactive comic art workshop filled with imagination and fun. Participants will explore character design, visual storytelling, and comic illustration through age-appropriate activities that inspire creativity and self-expression. No previous drawing experience is needed — just bring your ideas and imagination.

Barry Williams is an Integrative Holistic Therapist, Reflexologist, Reiki Practitioner, and Life Coach dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of both children and adults. He specialises in working with individuals with additional needs, including autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory challenges, and emotional wellbeing concerns. Through a compassionate, person-centred approach, Barry helps clients find greater balance, relaxation, confidence, and overall wellbeing.

Join Shannon for a colourful stilt-walking performance full of fun, movement, and interaction. Towering above the crowd, she will bring a sense of wonder and excitement as she roams through the festival, meeting families and young visitors along the way. A joyful and eye-catching experience that adds a little festival magic for all ages.

Join Maria for a gentle, playful roaming circus performance featuring stilt walking, unicycling, juggling and a healthy dose of mischief. Weaving through the crowd, Maria invites children and families to connect, play, and be silly together at their own pace.

Join Matthew for a fun and inclusive music workshop where everyday sounds, simple instruments, and shared creativity come together to create a unique song. Through rhythm, music, and group participation, children and families will explore ways to express emotions, build empathy, and encourage one another. No musical experience is needed — just bring your curiosity, imagination, and enthusiasm.

Join AVII KNIGHT (Aoibheann McKnight) as she closes the festival with an energetic live performance full of rhythm, emotion, and uplifting presence. Her debut single “Lose in Love” blends catchy pop sounds with honest storytelling about ADHD, creativity, and self-acceptance. Come ready to sing along and learn the chorus of this powerful anthem that celebrates embracing your own mind and individuality.