The name Spirited Sprout is simply describing what parents already know—like a seed grows to be a sprout in the right soil, so do our spirited children when planted in the right environment! We have chosen eye pleasing equipment that includes, soft play, indoor playsets, therapy-grade swings/slides and much more. Along our walls, you will find touches of STEM, Montessori, and Waldorf. We maximize our space (and wheelchair accessibility) by going vertical with many of our sensory toys! Our purpose is to not only ignite the soul within your child, but to create a community for parents/caregivers as well. We hope to become a big part of your play-time fun, by offering a unique activity center that is open all year long! Oh–and a coffee on the house!
Since 2014, my family and I have proudly called Waxhaw home. We are blessed with two beautiful children on Earth and one in heaven. I’m Ashley Redden, a wife, mother of two, nurse, CPR instructor, and the founder of Spirited Sprout, LLC established in 2020. Our business is family-owned and operated, and as the years have passed, my husband Brad has become an integral part of our work. He is an amazing human who cares deeply for the children in our community, and together, we’re building something special at Spirited Sprout.
My journey—both personally and as a mother—has led me to embrace my family’s unique neurological makeup. Our firstborn’s neurodivergence was a pivotal part of this journey and has shaped the way we approach everything we do. This experience, combined with our passion for neurodiversity, deeply informs the work we do at Spirited Sprout. We are passionate advocates for neurodiversity, and this commitment is woven into the very fabric of our lives, both in our space and in the broader community.
Spirited Sprout was born from a deep passion to create an inclusive, sensory-based activity center where every child—no matter their abilities—can be themselves, learn, grow, and thrive together. It’s a place where we see children for who they truly are—unique beings with individual needs—and extend that same understanding and respect to the adults in their lives. We are here to draw your family out of isolation, offering a safe space where connection, growth, and joy can happen.
With a background in brain development and human biology, my experience as a nurse has shaped my understanding of the profound impact sensory integration can have on development. After sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) at work and undergoing over a year of vestibular, speech, and occupational therapy, I personally experienced the transformative power of therapeutic sensory play. My journey, along with my firstborn’s neurodivergence quickly intersected. Pain transformed into purpose and it was placed on my heart to build a space where parents and children can enjoy these benefits while also forming supportive social connections.
Sensory play is for everyone. As a mother, I’ve watched my own children thrive on physical activity, human connection, and sensory stimulation—all vital for healthy growth and development. Unfortunately, these essential needs are often overlooked in traditional play spaces.
Spirited Sprout is more than just a business—it’s a mission driven by passion. I’ve been humbled and inspired by the community of supporters who have rallied around this vision, helping bring it to life. At Spirited Sprout, we are here to serve, educate, and advocate for a space where every child can engage in sensory play and be embraced for who they are. We are actively seeking volunteers, interns, staff, therapists, and families to join us in this exciting journey. Your support of this mission will help nurture inclusivity and give our spirited sprouts the opportunity to truly sprout!
Thank you for being part of this important work.
Ashley Redden