A safe, magical space where children feel nurtured and secure. Where nature and nurture combine.

Each Den is different, bespoke to the school it’s situated in. The Dens are sensory spaces to stimulate and calm. They are safe spaces where one to one professional counselling sessions take place. Children enjoy art and music therapy in the Den. Every room is designed to fit the need of the child. But dont take our word for it, here’s what the children had to say. “I like everything about Jen’s Den. The floor is fun and bumpy”. Hayley, aged 6. “There is only nature in the room and I like that”. Kavan, aged 5. “I love the squishy slugs. I love to play with them”. Willow, aged 6. “I like the tent because it is green. I like that when I get underneath it it feels warm.” Ayla, aged 5.

 

Our Dens have multiple uses

The Dens can be what you need them to be. They have multiple uses but essentially they are a safe space for children who are feeling overwhelmed or unsure. Each Den comes with it's own rag doll. Can you guess the name of our first rag doll? Yes, that's right. Jen. We've got Olly and Sid the sailor who are there to give support and comfort in a way that only a doll can.

Qualified Professionals

It is a unfortunate fact that some children experience trauma or loss and face situations that adults would find difficult. That's why we included qualified counsellors in our Dens. They meet with those who need support.

Sensory space

A fully equipped sensory Den has a number of benefits for children with autism. Sensory toys can help to calm and relax a child. We have seen improvement in language and communication skills within the confines of the Dens

A Space To Relax

The Dens are a great place to calm a child who is traumatised or stressed. There is little to no point in expecting a child who has issues to take a maths lesson or a spelling test. Sometimes, a quiet space for reflection is what is required.

Art, Music and Play therapy

Accessing the school curriculum through art, music and play therapy takes places in the Dens. Our team is small, but we are expanding our therapists to support those who need it most.

How we work with vulnerable children

Waiting lists for access to professional counsellors is long and often children are waiting months to be seen.  At Jenna’s Foundation we bring the counsellor to the school.  It is our goal to have qualified counsellors and therapists in every school who will work with vulnerable children to ensure they don’t take children trauma and anxiety into adulthood.

What our schools say

We are very grateful to the Jenna Wilkins Foundation for supporting us to develop a 'Jen's Den'. This space has had a huge impact on a range of children in the school for many different reasons. Children who have found difficulties managing trauma and challenge in their lives, have used this space to have some quiet time to regulate and find some peace. Some children have used this space effectively to make independent choices about how to support their own mental health and wellbeing rather than requiring co-regulation by default- which is huge progress! Children still use this space to receive 1:1 therapeutic support and the Den just creates a beautiful, calm space to support children to feel able to engage in this support. We love our Jen's Den!
Kirsty Johnson,
Headteacher of Alderton Junior School
Our Jens Den has become an invaluable part of school life at White Bridge Primary. It provides a calm, safe, and nurturing space where children can regulate their emotions, build resilience, and feel supported. Pupils use the Den daily to manage big feelings and return to class ready to learn, resulting in improved focus and reduced classroom disruption. We have seen increased confidence, resilience, and emotional awareness in children who regularly access the Den. Parents have shared that their children speak positively about using the space to self-regulate, and pupils themselves describe it as “a place to feel safe” and “somewhere I can talk about my feelings.” The Jens Den truly reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child and supporting every pupil’s social, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
James Kenyon, Headteacher,
White Bridge Primary School
Our Jen’s Den at Hereward is having a truly transformative impact on our dysregulated children. The thoughtfully provided sensory equipment and the calm, cosy environment provide a safe and nurturing space where children can pause, reset, and regulate their emotions. For many of our pupils, having access to this dedicated area has made an incredible difference — it gives them the time and support they need to feel secure and in control. As a result, they are far better able to re-engage with their learning, build positive relationships, and experience success in the classroom.
Renette Fourie
Hereward Primary School

What do we put inside a Jen's Den?

Each Den is unique. Take a look at the video to see inside some Dens.

Latest Jen's Den News

Interested In A Jen’s Den For Your School?

If your child's school would benefit from a Jen's Den get in touch. We'd love to help.

Get In Touch