Fidgets or fidget toys

I know you are thinking ‘what the heck are fidgets?’ Fidgets are toys or objects that are appropriate to play with or fidget with to promote self-regulation. This can be for calming or alerting, to promote focusing and attending, and to increase tactile awareness of fingers/hands.

I know I was very skeptical when they brought it up at an IEP meeting. They suggested my son sit on a Disc O’ Sit. They said the movement from sitting on it would help him focus in the class. He loved it. He could wiggle and move and no one was the wiser. It helped so much. That is what started me thinking more about this idea

We all know ADHDers will find fidgets good or bad. Experts say that this behavior is often seen because the ADHDer seeks stimuli in efforts to focused and organize incoming information. You might have seen fidgets in professional offices that work a lot with ADHD and just thought they were a toy to keep someone busy and yes they are. They keep the hands busy so the mind can focus on what the person is talking about. A common one we see is doodling. They are doodling to keep attentive to what is happening but to everyone else they may look like they are in their own world and not paying attention. So the teacher calls on them and not only do they know the answer but know everything that is going on around them.

Fidget toys are available in many toy stores and online at a variety of sites. I found most sites sell them under the label of fidget toys or sensory products. These toys can be expensive but similar toys can be found for considerably less. We find most of ours at the dollar store and Target. Our new family favorite is Bendaroo’s or Wiki sticks. A great one is the Kneadable Art Eraser. They have a purpose and you can really play with it. You do not feel like you are playing with a toy. Consider using a fidget for homework time.

Here are some more Articles about Fidget toys and the benefit

When ADHD Kids Fidget: Better Focus Through Multitasking

http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/3967-2.html

Ask a specialist-Fidget toys in the classroom

http://www.askaspecialist.ca.gov/archives/2006/ADHD/Oct_2006.htm

It is all about find out what works best for you and your family. Please feel free to comment below or e-mail us.  We are always adding to our fidget list and wanting to know what works for you.