Guinea pigs helping school children feel calm
Two guinea pigs, Munchy and Crunchy, have been recruited to help children with their learning at school.
Staff at St Peter's Droitwich CofE Academy in Worcestershire felt some pupils could benefit from extra help, so adopted the pair from a nearby rescue centre.
The guinea pigs have already had an impact on children's emotional health, giving them a sense of community and responsibility, since their arrival in January, the school said.
While pupils said Munchy and Crunchy help them feel calm as classes have to be quiet when the guineas are in the room.
Munchy and Crunchy spend their week being cared for by the pupils from each year group and go home with a teaching assistant at weekends and holidays.
"As one of the mental health and wellbeing leads...I'm always trying to think of ways that we can increase that feeling of responsibility, community, connectivity, and belonging," assistant headteacher Caroline Sims said.
"We do have some children during the school day who become disregulated for whatever reason.
"By having Munchy and Crunchy now well established as part of our school community, we are finding that being around them does allow them to regulate far quicker."
Year four pupil Nancy said: "When you're doing your work...say if you're really stressed they help you feel calm when you look at them.
"They're just cute and all furry and its nice to look at."
Isabelle, who is also in year four, added: "When we have Munchy and Crunchy, I like it because our class is normally really loud and when they come we always need to be very quiet with them so it is nice and calm."
The adoption process was supported by a Public Health wellbeing grant from Worcestershire County Council and West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner which enabled the purchase of a hutches, indoor and outdoor runs, and other pet care accessories.
The county council says therapy animals, like guinea pigs, can aid children's mental wellbeing, supporting engagement in learning, providing comfort, reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing social skills, and helping children learn about responsibility and empathy through their care.
Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Health and Wellbeing, Satinder Bell, said it helps the children to look forward to coming to school.
"It helps them calm, and reduce their anxiety about coming to school at times.
"And also gives them incentive because once you've finished your school work you have Munchy and Crunchy to play with."
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