Fairy good idea

The Irish Fairy Door Company has created a Worry Plaque that they hope will encourage kids to relinquish their anxieties.

Company Director Niamh Sherwin Barry says its research shows the tool helps kids open up about their worries.

When the child verbalizes their cause for concern, she places her palm on the toy, and the parent hears what has been weighing on their mind (and he can later initiate a discussion). The plastic handprint glows red while the child shares their worry, and glows green after the fairies have “taken it.” (The energy in worries is ground down to make wish-granting dust, explains the toymaker.)

To delve deeper into managing a fear of flying or the dark, kids can watch a collection of videos starring Fairy Clodagh on their website www.theIrishFairyDoorCompany.com.

The battery-fueled Worry Plaque soothes and brings smiles to handwringers ages 3 and older.

Worry Plaque by The Irish Fairy Door Company, $29.99, www.amazon.com.