In the classroom, student’s with sensory needs often fidget, which can be a distraction to both the learner and their peers. Classroom fidget tools are the solution. However, finding the right tool takes trial and error. Eventually the right tool can make a huge impact on student fidgeting and focus, while also teaching them to advocate for themselves.
The Impact of Fidgeting in the Classroom
Nervousness, fear, anxiety, stress, sensory seeking, ADHD, Autism or a non diagnosed but dysregulated nervous system are all valid reasons for using fidget tools. Classroom teachers know the benefits and pitfalls of fidget tools. They also recognize that fidgets are not one size fits all.
While one student may do fine with a small, stretchy monkey noodle that feels smooth between the fingers and fits nicely in the palm of their hand, another student may take the same fidget and be compelled to swing it in circles above their head. Finding the perfect fidget for each learner might take time. Parents can help teachers by trying fidgets at home first, watching carefully for how they’re being used. Is the fidget calming or adding to stimulation? Is it being used as a tool or as a toy? Will it be a tool for learning or a distraction for others?
Finding the Right Fit
Despite what it may say on the package, before giving any child a fidget it’s important to tell them that a fidget is a tool and not a toy. Teacher and parents need to be clear about this upfront. if fidgets become toys they need to be taken away, not as a punishment, but as a reminder. If it’s given back and the playing begins, it’s a sign that it’s not the right fidget. Trial and error is key.
Important, too is that the fidget is low tech, and quiet. There are some wonderful fidgets out there for people with auditory sensory needs, but inside of a classroom, in order to avoid excess noise, tools can’t make noise. Auditory overstimulation on the other hand is easily addressed with a basket of headsets made available to students.
Classroom Fidget Tools to Matching the Sensory Need
Every human has sensory needs; things that stimulate us in either good ways and bad. Some people like things that feel smooth, like the student I mentioned above. Others may prefer something that’s more prickly, less squishy. Figuring out a child’s physical sensory needs will help to choose the fidget.
Effective Classroom Fidget Tools
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Until you have a student with an oral sensory seeking needs you won’t understand the value of the Chewy Necklaces. I’ve seen these help so many kids.
Fidgets for Use at Home
There are some fidgets that are awesome, but work much better at home, due to size, noise or being too much of a toy.
Fidgets Aren’t Forever: Encouraging Self Regulation and Growth
Keep in mind that the use of classroom sensory tools and fidgets are not meant to last forever. As students begin to understand their own needs, they can determine if they need a fidget or not. This is growth, and an exciting thing to see as even the most young learners begin to self-assess, and advocate for themselves.
Are you an adult who uses sensory fidgets? Which are your favorites in your classroom?
Ms.Martha