From Mom's Heart to Your Home: How One Family is Revolutionizing Sensory Play for Kids

NATIONWIDE -FEBRUARY 2026 - (USAnews.com) When Indre Ptak, a dedicated stay-at-home mom, couldn’t find sensory tools that fit the unique needs of her neurodivergent child, she set out on a mission to create something special. What started as a personal quest to find soothing toys for her own children blossomed into a heartfelt business with a mission: to help other families support their kids’ emotional well-being through sensory-friendly toys. Welcome to Olivia and Jack, a brand founded by a mom, inspired by her children, and designed to make a real difference in the lives of kids everywhere.

A Vision Born from Love and Need

In 2023, as Indre juggled the demands of raising her two young children, she realized that there was a significant gap in the market when it came to sensory toys. The products available often lacked the balance of being functional and comforting for her neurodivergent child. So, she decided to take matters into her own hands. After countless hours designing her own sensory-friendly creations, weighted stuffed animals and calming playdough tools, Indre quickly saw that other families were looking for exactly the same thing. Olivia and Jack was born.

“I wanted to make toys that would not only help my children calm their nervous systems but also be something they’d actually enjoy,” Indre shares. “I wanted these toys to be cute, comforting, and functional, things they could love while also using as tools to help with emotional regulation.”

Award-Winning Excellence in Sensory Toys: Olivia and Jack Named Best in Illinois

In recognition of their outstanding contribution to the sensory toy market, Olivia and Jack has been honored with the title of Best Weighted Stuffed Animals for Kids in Illinois of 2026 by the prestigious Best Of Best Reviews. This award highlights the brand’s commitment to creating high-quality, sensory-friendly products that support emotional well-being and help children, especially those with sensory needs, feel calm and focused. Since its inception in 2023, Olivia and Jack has quickly become a leader in the industry, with their flagship product, the 3 lb weighted stuffed animals, receiving widespread acclaim from families and experts alike. This accolade is a testament to the company’s dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of children and their families.

The Family Behind the Brand

What truly sets Olivia and Jack apart is that it’s more than just a business; it’s a family affair. Indre’s children, Olivia and Jack, are the inspiration behind the brand. They don’t just test out the toys, they are deeply involved in every aspect of the business. From helping with product testing to packing orders and brainstorming ideas for new products, their hands-on involvement is a core part of the brand’s success.

“The feedback I get from Olivia and Jack is invaluable,” says Indre. “They tell me what they like and don’t like, and that’s how we create toys that are not only functional but also fun. It’s a true team effort.”

The Toys That Do More Than Just Entertain

Olivia and Jack’s collection isn’t just about playing, it’s about helping children regulate their emotions and find comfort when they need it most. From weighted stuffed animals that provide calming pressure to thoughtfully designed playdough tools that help with fine motor skills, each product is made with care to support sensory development.

The brand’s best-selling products, the weighted stuffed animals, are especially loved by families. These adorable plush toys, available in designs like bunnies, a monkey, and a dog, are filled with just the right amount of weight to provide soothing sensory input. Parents rave about how these toys help their kids feel calmer and more secure, whether it’s for bedtime, a long car ride, or just a stressful moment.

“Families tell me all the time that their kids use these toys as emotional support tools, not just as playthings,” Indre says. “It’s amazing to hear how something we’ve created can bring so much comfort.”

More Than Just a Toy Company, A Community of Support

Olivia and Jack’s mission isn’t limited to selling products, it’s about building a supportive community. Indre and her family attend select vendor markets in Illinois, where they connect with local families, hear their stories, and witness firsthand how their toys are making a difference. This personal interaction, combined with the brand’s online presence, has helped build a loyal and passionate following.

“It’s incredible to see parents face-to-face, hear about how our toys have impacted their kids, and build those personal connections,” says Indre. “It’s not just about selling toys; it’s about creating a movement and helping to raise awareness about sensory needs in children.”

A Bright Future Ahead

With plans to expand the product line and continue spreading the word about the importance of sensory support, Olivia and Jack are poised to grow. Each new product is carefully crafted with the same care, quality, and attention to detail that parents have come to love and trust.

Indre is committed to helping more children, whether neurodivergent or neurotypical, feel supported and understood through sensory-friendly toys that promote emotional well-being.

Discover More and Join the Movement

If you’re looking for sensory tools that can help your child feel calm, secure, and loved, visit Olivia and Jack’s website at www.shopoliviaandjack.com. For updates, product launches, and to be a part of the Olivia and Jack community, follow them on Instagram at @shopoliviaandjack.

By supporting Olivia and Jack, you’re not just buying a toy, you’re contributing to a growing community that believes in the power of sensory toys to make a real difference. Join Indre, Olivia, and Jack as they continue their journey to help children all across the world navigate their emotions and embrace a more comfortable, supportive way of living.