Fidgets are great for kids who need them, but managing fidget use isn’t always so easy. Here are some tips to make it easier!
Fidget toys can be incredibly beneficial for students, especially those with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing needs. They help improve focus, reduce anxiety, and enhance engagement in learning. However, without clear guidelines and structure, they can also become a source of distraction for both the student using the fidget and their classmates. The key is to implement strategies that allow students to benefit from fidget tools without them disrupting the learning environment. Here are some practical, creative, and effective strategies for managing fidget use in the classroom.
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1. Set Clear Expectations from the Start
Before introducing fidget tools in the classroom, establish clear rules and expectations. Students should understand that fidgets are tools, not toys, and that they should be used in a way that supports learning rather than distracts from it. Some guidelines to consider include:
- Fidgets should be used quietly.
- Fidgets should remain in students’ hands or designated areas.
- Fidgets should not be thrown, shared, or used in a way that disrupts others.
- Misuse of a fidget tool may result in its temporary removal.
Consider creating a visual chart with expectations and reviewing them regularly, especially at the beginning of the school year.
2. Choose the Right Type of Fidgets
Not all fidget toys are suitable for classroom use. Some are noisy, require too much movement, or can easily become distractions. The best fidgets for the classroom are:
Providing students with a pre-approved list of fidgets or selecting options together can ensure that everyone benefits without excessive distractions.
3. Create a Fidget Toolbox or Station
Having a designated fidget toolbox or station allows students to access appropriate tools when needed. This can include:
By making fidgets available but structured, students can learn responsibility and self-regulation in managing their use.
4. Assign Fidget Zones or Breaks
For students who need more movement, designating specific areas or times for fidget use can be helpful. This could include:
- A fidget-friendly corner where students can take short movement breaks.
- Allowing students to use fidgets during independent work or transitions rather than whole-group instruction.
- Incorporating fidget use into brain breaks or sensory breaks throughout the day.
5. Use Fidgets as Part of Learning Activities
Integrating fidgets into academic tasks can help reinforce learning while providing sensory support. Some ways to do this include:
- Using stress balls or putty during reading activities to enhance focus.
- Allowing students to manipulate small objects while listening to instructions.
- Incorporating movement-based learning activities, such as stretching bands for counting exercises or tapping rhythms with fidget cubes.
By making fidgets a tool for learning rather than a separate accommodation, they become more normalized in the classroom setting.
6. Teach and Reinforce Self-Regulation Skills
Helping students understand why they need a fidget tool and how to use it effectively can make a big difference. Encourage self-awareness by asking:
- Does this fidget help you focus, or is it distracting?
- How do you feel when you use the fidget correctly?
- What strategies can you use if a fidget becomes too distracting?
Providing mini-lessons on self-regulation and having one-on-one discussions about fidget use can empower students to take ownership of their learning and sensory needs.
7. Use Positive Reinforcement and Redirection
When students use fidgets appropriately, acknowledge and reinforce their positive behavior. Phrases like, “I love how you’re using your fidget to help you focus!” can encourage responsible use. If a student misuses a fidget, redirect them calmly rather than punishing them. For example:
- “I see that your fidget is making noise. Let’s try using it more quietly.”
- “That fidget seems to be a little too distracting right now. Would you like to swap it for a different one?”
This approach helps maintain a positive learning environment while ensuring fidgets are being used correctly.
8. Collaborate with Parents and Support Staff
Communication with parents, occupational therapists, and other support staff can provide additional insights into what fidget tools work best for each student. Some students may benefit from specialized sensory tools recommended by professionals. Keeping parents informed about classroom fidget policies can also help ensure consistency at home and school.
9. Monitor and Adjust as Needed
No strategy is one-size-fits-all. Observe how fidget use is working in your classroom and make adjustments as needed. If certain fidgets become more of a distraction than a benefit, replace them with alternatives. Gather student input on what helps them focus best, and be open to modifying your approach based on classroom needs.
Fidget tools can be an effective way to support students’ focus, self-regulation, and engagement in the classroom when managed properly. By setting clear expectations, choosing the right fidgets, integrating them into learning, and reinforcing positive behaviors, you can create a classroom environment where fidget use is purposeful and productive. With thoughtful implementation, fidgets can enhance your students’ learning rather than disrupt it, allowing everyone to thrive.
