They offer a physical outlet for nervous energy and can be used to improve concentration, relieve stress, or simply satisfy the desire for tactile engagement. Fidget toys come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and materials, offering diverse options to cater to individual preferences and needs.

These toys have gained popularity in recent years, with both children and adults utilizing them to varying degrees. They are widely recognized for their potential to promote focus, relaxation, and a sense of control in situations where restlessness or anxiety may be problematic.

Some common types of fidget toys include:

Stress Balls: Stress balls are soft, squeezable objects designed for users to squeeze, knead, or roll in their hands. The repetitive squeezing motion can help relieve tension and stress, making them a popular choice in work or school settings.

Spinner Rings: Spinner rings are often worn on a person's finger and consist of an outer ring that can rotate independently from the inner part. Twirling the outer ring can provide a soothing, rhythmic motion and help individuals focus or calm their nerves.

Sensory Putty: Sensory putty is a malleable substance that users can stretch, squeeze, and mold it to their liking. Sensory putty can be especially helpful for people who need tactile stimulation to concentrate or manage anxiety.

Cube Puzzles: Fidget cubes or puzzle cubes are small handheld devices with multiple sides, each featuring different activities such as buttons to press, switches to flip, and dials to spin. These toys offer a variety of tactile and auditory sensations, making them suitable for those who need diverse sensory inputs.

Tangle Toys:Tangle toys are made up of interconnected plastic or rubber pieces that can be twisted, turned, and fidgeted with. They provide a continuous and adaptable tactile experience for users, helping them stay engaged while reducing restlessness.

Fidget toys are not limited to any specific age group. They have been particularly popular among children with attention disorders like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as well as autisticindividuals. For children with ADHD, fidget toys can serve as a constructive outlet for their excess energy, potentially improving their ability to concentrate on tasks. Similarly, autistic people might use these toys as a way to self-regulate their sensory experiences in different environments.

Many adults have also embraced fidget toys as a means to cope with stress and maintain focus in demanding work or study situations. Many modern workplaces and schools have become more accommodating of these tools, recognizing their potential benefits in promoting productivity and reducing anxiety.

At the same time, some people prefer to use discreet toys that do not draw attention to their fidgeting. The most discreet fidget toys are typically small, quiet, and easy to use. The best examples include fidget rings, stress balls, textured keychains, or worry stones. These items can provide private sensory stimulation and stress relief whilst the individual is in a public setting.

Fidget toys are based on the concept that engaging with sensory or motor activities can have a calming and centering effect on the mind. The idea behind this is that people have varying sensory needs, and for certain individuals, the repetitive movements and tactile stimulation provided by fidget toys can be soothing and help them manage their mental state.

While fidget toys have gained popularity and proven beneficial for many individuals, it's important to note that their effectiveness can vary from person to person. What works as an effective fidget toy for one individual may not work for another. The use of fidget toys should be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the user. Undergoing a Sensory Profile assessment with an Occupational Therapist can help individuals understand their needs and how best to address them.

In summary, fidget toys are versatile tools designed to provide sensory stimulation, relieve restlessness, and promote focus and relaxation. They come in various forms and are used by people of all ages to manage stress, improve concentration, or simply satisfy their need for tactile engagement. Fidget toys have found a place in schools, workplaces, and everyday life as valuable aids in addressing challenges related to attention and anxiety.

Sources:

https://raisingchildren.net.au/
https://www.adaptandlearn.com/post/everything-you-need-to-know-about-fidget-toys-for-adhd-anxiety
https://healthmatch.io/blog/are-fidget-toys-helpful-for-kids-with-autism