Producers of a new CBeebies animation, voiced by former Doctor Who star David Tennant, have worked with occupational therapists from the Dyspraxia Foundation to create a series of movement activities for the programme. Dr Lynda Foulder-Hughes and Sally Payne, who volunteer for the Foundation, have collaborated on Tree Fu Tom, a fantasy adventure animation for children aged four to six years old.
Children watching the programme are invited to help Tom (Tennant) cast magic spells using a series of gentle, physical movements which they are encouraged to copy and practice. The therapists designed the movement sequences using techniques commonly used in occupational therapy practice. The spells aim to assist and enhance the development of strength and movement skills in all children, including those who have movement disorders and difficulties such as dyspraxia, at an important time in their growth.
The first episode of Tree Fu Tom aired on Monday 5 March 2012.
