The origin of the Wriggleworm sensory regulation play structure began with a simple but profound question: What is the greatest full-body sensory experience? For the creator, the answer was intuitive and grounding: to dig through the earth just as a worm does, feeling a safe, calming pressure from all sides.
Driven by a mission to help Autistic and other differently abled individuals manage sensory regulation, the Wriggleworm was developed to provide a unique sense of being grounded. This innovative play structure offers a powerful combination of full-body moderate sensory input and physical exertion, all designed to aid in self-regulation.
At the heart of the Wriggleworm is a “captured pack” of vibrant foam pool noodles. These noodles are attached securely to the structure’s sides using bungee cords, which are thoughtfully covered by the foam. This design creates a consistent, moderate squeezing pressure while remaining flexible, unintimidating, and incredibly fun!
Unlike traditional “squeezing devices,” the Wriggleworm demands full-body physical exertion. The motion required to navigate the structure is akin to swimming or crawling through deep mud or sand. It is not a passive roller; it is an active play structure that encourages physical creativity.
Users can experience it in many ways:
- Customizable Challenge: Crawling through a pre-formed channel offers moderate resistance, or users can create their own challenging path by crawling up, down, or sideways.
- A Personal Retreat: Some users may prefer using the Wriggleworm as a secure, private “fort” or even a cozy, pressure-filled bed, or even a type of hammock.
The Wrggleworm is fundamentally designed to be safe and versatile. Because the main components are soft foam noodles and covered bungee cords, the structure itself is incredibly forgiving.
- Quick Accessibility: The density of the noodles is balanced specifically so that a user can be easily removed, if necessary, through the top or either end.
- Tested for Everyone: Designed for people of varying sizes and strength, the Wriggleworm has been rigorously safety and durability tested with users ranging from 4 years old and 35 pounds to 56 years old and 240 pounds.
- Superior Frame Construction: The frame is built from multiple layers of Baltic birch hardwood and birch magnolia core plywood, ensuring exceptional strength.
- Triangulated Corners: External triangulation at the corners was specifically chosen to create maximum structural integrity and longevity without relying on metal brackets.
- Natural Finish: The outer portions of the frame are finished polyurethane and the inner portions are finished with beeswax. This seals the frame against warping from liquids or humidity without using harsh chemical coatings.
- Total Edge Protection: For absolute safety, all main edges and corners are meticulously covered by edge and corner protecting foam designed for baby-proofing furniture.
The Wriggleworm sensory regulation play structure is more than a toy; it is a dedicated space for exploration, regulation, and natural, imaginative play.