Month: June 2025

For Viv Foster, the decision to start again wasn’t easy – but it was the beginning of something magical.

After a 30-year career working across nurseries, mainstream and special needs schools, and the voluntary sector, Viv had seen the growing pressure on children to achieve academic success. “I found myself always looking out for the less achieving pupils,” she says. “I wanted to support the children who were struggling silently with stress and low self-esteem.”

That desire to make a deeper difference led Viv to Relax Kids.

“I trained just before the first lockdown and received my certification full of enthusiasm. And then – the world shut down,” she recalls. “It was such a frustrating time. I believed in Relax Kids so much, but suddenly, everything was on pause.”

Without a client base or in-person access, many would have stopped there. But Viv didn’t.

“I turned to the 7 Steps of Relax Kids to guide myself. I started running sessions for friends and family online, doing what I could with what I had. I knew this work mattered, and I wasn’t going to let the pandemic stop me.”

By September, schools had reopened and Viv began delivering just a few sessions in the school where she worked. But her heart was clear – this was the path she wanted to follow. So she made a brave decision.

“I handed in my notice and committed to building my Relax Kids business full time.”

And she hasn’t looked back.

Viv completed additional training in Baby Mindful and Charge Up, delivered adult classes via Zoom, and even hosted lakeside sessions during warm summer evenings – rain or shine.

But it was her offer to deliver free sessions for Essex County Council’s Activate programme that truly opened new doors.

“These clubs offer free activities and hot meals to children from low-income families. Active Essex loved Relax Kids and booked sessions across the county. They’re even enquiring about Christmas clubs now – and I’ve been able to share the work with other coaches too.”

In just a short time, Viv has delivered classes to over 850 children and adults. She’s running school sessions, building a waiting list for 1:1s, and helping children navigate anxiety, build resilience, and rediscover their confidence.

“Starting a business during a global lockdown sounds crazy,” Viv says. “But I believed in this work, and I never gave up. Now, I’ve got my spark back, and I’m proud every day to say I help children and adults manage in this ever-changing, often stressful world.”

Her next goal? To become more visible across Essex and help even more families discover the power of Relax Kids.

“I’m filled with pride and excitement for the future. I’m planning new ways to promote what I do and can’t wait to work as a team to share the Relax Kids message far and wide.”

From a quiet classroom to a lakeside session in the rain, Viv’s journey proves that resilience, belief, and a big heart can create incredible transformation – even in the most uncertain times.

If you would like more information about the Relax Kids training – book a call with Marneta.

Relax Kids Dengie with Viv

Every Relax Kids coach has a different story. Some came to the training after years in education. Others were looking for a fresh start. Some had never taught before. But one thing unites them – the deep joy and purpose they find in this work.

We recently asked a group of coaches:
“What’s the BEST thing about your Relax Kids business?”
Here’s what they told us – and we think their answers will inspire you too.

💜 Stephanie shares:
“My bookings grew and grew. My sessions got better and better. My feedback was AMAZING from staff, children and parents.”
Success, for Stephanie, has come not only from showing up – but from the transformation she’s seen in herself and others along the way.

💜 Donna says:
“Being known locally by professionals and being recommended by people who have been or by professionals that see an improvement in a child who has been to my Relax Kids classes or 1:1s or are in a school I’ve worked in. RK is really getting known now up this neck of the woods and I’m proud of that.”
For Donna, it’s about recognition – and knowing her work is making a lasting difference in children’s lives.

💜 Kath adds:
“For me it’s being so well known locally. Pretty much every professional I meet has already heard about me.”
There’s something powerful about becoming a trusted name in your community – and Kath’s experience shows how far that reach can grow.

💜 Katy reflects:
“I really do feel most proud of the love, support & friendship developing between my fellow Surrey coaches.”
Because this isn’t just business – it’s belonging. Our Relax Kids community lifts each other up, celebrates wins, and shares ideas with joy.

These stories are just a glimpse into what’s possible with Relax Kids. Whether it’s the joy of watching children grow, the pride of becoming locally known, or the friendships formed along the way – our coaches are finding more than just a job. They’re building something meaningful.

Feeling inspired?
Maybe this is your sign to start your own Relax Kids journey.
Download an info pack here

If you’re considering joining our Relax Kids training, you might be wondering what to expect. Our training is designed to be flexible, accessible, and packed with value, whether you’re looking for a new career path or simply want to make a difference in children’s lives.

Here are 10 things you need to know before you start:

1. It’s completely online – and full of value

While we know many people miss the buzz of in-person training, we’ve gone above and beyond to ensure our online training offers even more. You’ll receive core training content plus 20 inspiring coach interviews, where experienced Relax Kids coaches share practical tips and real-life insights on using the programme.

2. You won’t be alone

To keep things interactive and supportive, we run regular online cohort training sessions with Marneta and the Relax Kids team. You’ll join a community of like-minded trainees for extra connection, encouragement, and guidance.

3. It fits around your life

The training takes around 8 hours, plus an additional 10 hours of optional interviews. Most people complete it in 2–4 weeks, though you have 6 months total. Busy with life or other commitments? Just message us and we’ll happily extend your time.

4. It’s not the cheapest – and that’s for a reason

There are cheaper courses out there, and we understand if cost is a concern. But time and again, coaches tell us they were amazed by how much they received – from content to community to business support. Many say it’s more than worth it.

5. This isn’t a job – it’s the start of a business

Becoming a Relax Kids coach doesn’t guarantee instant income. Like any business, you’ll need to put in time, creativity, and effort to grow. You’ll plan sessions, build relationships, and slowly but surely establish yourself in your community. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

6. You’ll get certified – and feel proud of it

To become a certified Relax Kids coach, you’ll run four free trial classes, submit case studies, collect testimonials, and provide your insurance, police check, safeguarding, and first aid certificate. Then, the title of certified Relax Kids coach is all yours.

7. You’ll never feel truly alone

Working for yourself can feel isolating, but our warm, passionate community of coaches is always here for you. We share wins, ask questions, swap ideas, and support one another through challenges.

8. You don’t need a teaching background

While teaching experience can help, it’s absolutely not essential. Many of our most successful coaches came from completely different careers. What matters most is your heart, your presence, and your willingness to grow.

9. Class management is a skill – and you’ll learn it

Nervous about working with groups of children? Don’t worry. It’s a learning curve, and we’ll support you through it. Over time, you’ll build confidence, develop class management strategies, and find your own rhythm.

10. It’s a low-cost business model with high potential

After training, your ongoing costs are minimal. Aside from optional props, insurance, first aid, and safeguarding, your only fixed cost is the Small monthly franchise fee – no percentages, no hidden extras. Many coaches build part-time or full-time businesses around their family life, and some even earn more than they did in previous careers.

If you want to work with babies and teenagers, you can take the Baby Mindful and ChargeUp trainings after you are Relax Kids trained.

At Relax Kids, we offer high-quality training that opens up real possibilities. Whether you’re hoping to start something new or add to your current skills, you’ll find the tools, support, and inspiration you need.

✨ Download our info pack and discover if this path is right for you.

✨ Explore testimonials from coaches who’ve walked this journey.