Every School Should Get Device Making Real Difference to Children with Anxiety
An MP advocates for schools to have the Cubbie device to help children with anxiety and sensory issues, enhancing their learning experience.
Northern Ireland, Belfast, Cubbie, Anxiety, Sensory Processing, Special Educational Needs
The Cubbie is like a small photo booth. It helps kids relax before class. Teachers and parents say it’s great for kids with special needs. It creates calming sounds and visuals to help them feel better.
In Northern Ireland, one in 20 kids has an autism diagnosis. The number of children needing special education support has also increased. Over 68,000 students have some form of special educational need.
During a recent visit to Mercy Primary, MP Pat Cullen said every school deserves a Cubbie. He emphasized the importance of this device for both students and teachers. He also mentioned the need for it in mental health services for kids waiting for diagnoses.
David and Diane McIntyre created the Cubbie for their child. David explained that it helps kids with sensory processing issues. For some, light and noise can be overwhelming. The Cubbie helps them manage these feelings.
Mercy Principal Elaine Loughran shared that the Cubbie has been a success. Kids can choose their own calming programs. It’s safe and helps them regulate their senses before returning to class.
Alisha Varndell said her daughter Georgia loves the Cubbie. Just ten minutes a day makes a huge difference for her. Alisha noticed a change in Georgia’s behavior on weekends without access to the Cubbie.
Éamonn McKermott, the school’s SENCo, noted improvements in self-regulation and reduced anxiety since the Cubbie was introduced. Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many wanting their kids to use it.
The Cubbie gives kids a much-needed break. They return to class refreshed and ready to learn. It’s clear that this device is making a real impact in schools.