BY SYLVIA POWNALL

The fourth-year students came up with the idea for The Comfort Kit as part of their Transition year enterprise model, providing carefully curated fidget sensory boxes for people of all ages to manage stress and improve concentration.

Founded by students Michaela Nicholas, Róisín Tobin, and Evie Levis, they offer a range of boxes each filled with high-quality, engaging sensory items and fidget toys.

The trio said they were inspired by a shared recognition of the growing need for accessible, affordable and effective stress-relief tools in today’s fast- paced and often screen-dominated world. The students spotted a gap in the market for such a product and believe they have created a very unique package.

The Comfort Kit

‘We saw that a lot of people, ourselves included, struggle with finding healthy ways to cope with daily pressures,’ explained Michaela Nicholas, co-founder of The Comfort Kit.

‘Fidget toys are not just for kids; they are valuable tools for anyone looking to channel nervous energy, improve concentration, or simply take a moment to de-stress. We wanted to create a product that was both practical, effective and comforting.’

Each box from The Comfort Kit is thoughtfully assembled in sustainable packaging, to provide a diverse sensory experience, and includes items such as stress balls, pop-its, tangle toys, and other tactile aids.

A core benefit of these tools is their ability to help users manage and regulate their emotions independently, particularly in challenging environments like schools and social settings. This self-regulation fosters improved focus and emotional well-being without relying on external intervention.

The mini-company is participating in the nationwide Student Enterprise Programme, a competition that encourages second-level students to develop practical business skills by setting up and running their own enterprises.

‘The support we have received from our teachers and the local community in Bantry has been fantastic,’ revealed Róisín Tobin. ‘It’s been a steep learning curve, but incredibly rewarding to see our idea turn into a real product that can help people in West Cork and beyond.’

The Comfort Kit is currently taking orders online and through their social media channels. They offer them in a range of colours including; blue, pink, yellow, orange, green, purple and red.

For more information visit their Instagram page @cpb.thecomfortkit or contact the team directly by email: [email protected].