Following a 2024 visit to the UK part of our Cuba-UK disability network, representatives of Cuba’s new learning disability association (ACPDI) and the University of Holguín identified affirming sensory practice as a priority for knowledge exchange and community practice.

In January 2025, supported by the International Science Partnership Fund, we began this process with a series of workshops in eastern Cuba. These workshops allowed us to share, adapt and test out activities based on simple sensory tools with professionals, families, schools and young people who are neurodivergent or have learning disabilities.

Inspired by methodologies developed at Attenborough Arts Centre, Leicester, as part of their award-winning SENsory Atelier programme, we went on to co-produce sensory suitcases built by a local artisan from locally available and recycled materials. These suitcases are now being delivered to schools, community settings and home educators across Holguin and Granma Provinces, and ACPDI is running regular activities with their members and in special schools to develop sensory practice.

We’re following up with research co-authored by key Cuban participants to see how they apply, modify and reimagine these processes in the months to come.