What are fidgets and how do you use fidgets?

I have noticed that a lot of families buy fidgets for their kiddos, but then mention to me that the kiddos do not use them. This post discusses what is a fidget and how to teach your kiddos to use fidgets effectively.

What is a fidget?

Fidgets are tools and not toys. A fidget should be appropriate and safe and easily manipulated (e.g., moveable). Safe includes no choking hazards or any other hazards (e.g., sharp, shock) (recommended to use all fidgets with supervision). Appropriate includes what is appropriate for the kiddo and the environment. For example, a 4 year old boy may use a dinosaur pop toy while a 15 year old girl may use a bracelet, ring, or necklace fidget. Also, while waiting in a doctor's office, it would probably be best to use a fidget that is not very noisy.

How do you use fidgets?

Fidgets can be used when needing to focus and/or sit down and wait. For example, lobbies, airports, doctor's offices, the dentist, etc. They can provide needed stimulation without moving around the environment. These can also be used when needing to have a conversation and attend to the conversation.

How do I know if my kiddo needs or could benefit from a fidget?

Does your kiddo have trouble sitting still or waiting? Do they constantly play with things when needing to sit down (e.g., their shirt, pieces of the chair, things on the table, etc.)? Are they an active kiddo? Do they have limited attention?

Fidgets can be useful for all of these and much more!

Reach out today if you have any questions or anything to add regarding fidgets!