About Nigel
Bringing Sensory Support to Life with Nigel the Weighted Polar Bear
Nigel the Weighted Polar Bear offers a playful, approachable way to introduce deep pressure stimulation (DPS) and proprioceptive input to children and families. He’s more than just a cuddly stuffed animal — he’s a therapeutic companion designed to support self-soothing, body awareness, and sensory integration.
The Science Behind Nigel's Hug
When a child hugs Nigel, the gentle weight helps their body sense its position and movement, providing a feeling of stability and comfort — similar to the comforting sensation of a lead apron at the dentist or snuggling under heavy blankets on a cold night. This kind of input activates C fibers, sending calming signals from the muscles to the brainstem that help the body feel safe and grounded.
Research supports the therapeutic use of deep pressure stimulation (DPS) and weighted items for children with sensory regulation needs. Studies show that DPS can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and support emotional regulation (Chen et al., 2013; Mullen et al., 2008). Occupational therapists use weighted tools like Nigel to promote engagement, grounding, and calming, especially for children with sensory processing challenges, ADHD, trauma histories, or general regulation needs (Champagne, 2006; Champagne et al., 2017; AOTA, 2014).
Where Evidence-Based Practice Meets Everyday Comfort
Nigel provides evidence-based therapeutic input that clinicians can trust, while also offering a comforting, accessible tool for children and families. His soft, weighted design makes it easy for children to engage with therapeutic strategies in a fun and familiar way. Whether in clinical sessions, schools, or home environments, Nigel is a great way to support sensory modulation, emotional regulation, and coping skills development.