How Playwhizz Came To Be

Hi, I’m Bronwyn, and this is the story of how my little business, Playwhizz, has grown and evolved over the years—and the exciting journey it continues to take me on.

The idea for Playwhizz Toy Library began a few years ago when my children were younger and attending Occupational Therapy sessions. I realised how valuable it would be for parents to borrow educational toys, games, and puzzles—not only to support development but also to help children practice therapy skills at home, without parents having to buy every product needed.

At the same time, my curiosity about sensory processing and sensory development was growing. I could see the difference it made in our daily lives when I understood my children’s sensory processing styles.

In 2014, I was approached by local Occupational Therapists and offered the opportunity to run their Groovy Adventurers Program (GAP) in Durbanville. GAP was a sensory-motor development program for caregivers and their babies/toddlers, taught through fun weekly group sessions. Using everyday items, we explored sensory play and developmental milestones in simple, playful ways. Through GAP, I expanded my knowledge of sensory development in babies and children, as well as sensory styles. At the same time, Playwhizz continued offering its Toy Library service.

By the end of 2018, GAP was passed to a new owner, allowing me to focus all my attention on Playwhizz. My mission became twofold: growing the Toy Library and sharing knowledge with parents and caregivers about sensory development and sensory play.

In 2020, I completed the Sensory Intelligence® Practitioners Course, which deepened my expertise and gave me access to the Sensory Matrix™ Assessments. These assessments allow adults to better understand their sensory profiles and discover strategies to manage daily challenges. This is where Sensory Essence was born—supporting parents and adults with insights into their own sensory styles while Playwhizz focused on children.

Yet, I felt something was still missing.

In October 2024, after some deep reflection, I had an AHA moment. I returned to my core belief: everyone should know their sensory style, and in turn, have greater understanding and empathy for the people around them. Around this time, I rediscovered the concept of Snoezelen Rooms (Sensory Rooms). I had always loved the idea but didn’t see how I could implement it. That’s when the dream evolved—what if I could create a portable sensory room?

Enter the Sensory Box™—a portable Multi-Sensory Therapeutic Environment that offers all the benefits of a sensory room, in a way that works for me and the families I support.

This became the new vision for Playwhizz: bringing all the elements I am passionate about together—sensory play, education, connection, and support. We ordered our own Sensory Igloo (Sensory Box™) and began transforming our space into the new home of Playwhizz.

Today, Playwhizz offers sensory-inspired play, education, and unique sensory experiences that empower families to foster meaningful connections and navigate daily life with greater ease. Our mission is to provide tools and knowledge about sensory regulation and integration, enabling happier, more fulfilled lives.

In January 2025, we officially launched the new Playwhizz, and we’ve been working hard to grow this vision ever since. I look forward to creating opportunities for growth, joy, and lasting memories—one sensory moment at a time.