What challenge was the business or partner experiencing?
WayMaker Child Therapy C.I.C., a Ballymena-based not-for-profit founded by play therapist Eileen Russell, sought to expand its impact beyond the clinic by creating innovative tools to support children dealing with trauma and emotional challenges. Having developed a therapeutic animated story—A New Day for Little Bear—Eileen identified the need for a sensory, comforting product that could physically connect children to the narrative. However, the company lacked the design expertise to develop a safe, eco-friendly, and regulation-compliant therapeutic teddy bear that could complement the animation.
What solution did Ulster University propose?
With the support of an Invest NI Innovation Voucher, WayMaker partnered with Professor Alison Gault from the Belfast School of Art at Ulster University to co-create the bespoke therapeutic bear. The collaboration focused on designing a child-safe, tactile, and eco-conscious product that aligned with the animation’s theme and enhanced its emotional impact.
Professor Gault led the design of a bear prototype using locally sourced, sustainable materials—including Irish Grown Wool (Galway felt) and yarn from Donegal Yarns. The bear design was based directly on the animated character to maintain narrative cohesion. Various sizes were tested, including a large, weighted version intended for therapeutic use on the knee—setting the stage for a follow-up project.
This innovative partnership showcased the potential of combining creative design with clinical knowledge—powering innovation through collaboration.
What was the impact of the solution?
The project resulted in a prototype of a one-of-a-kind therapeutic teddy bear that enhances the healing experience of A New Day for Little Bear. By providing a physical, sensory companion to the story, the bear deepens emotional engagement for children and caregivers, offering comfort and connection during moments of loss or trauma.
The bear’s eco-friendly design also opened up new avenues for social impact and commercial potential. This dual innovation—the animation and tactile bear—is the first of its kind within the play therapy space and has the potential to reach families worldwide.
Beyond the product itself, the collaboration elevated awareness of play therapy as a growing field, demonstrated the power of interdisciplinary partnerships, and positioned WayMaker Child Therapy as a trailblazer in therapeutic innovation. It’s a testament to how shared knowledge and creative synergy can drive meaningful change.