Fidgets in the Classroom: Do They Really Help Kids Focus

If you’re a teacher, you’ve probably seen it all – jumping jacks in the middle of a lesson, mysterious noises no one will claim responsibility for, and the occasional desk climber. Enter fidget toys, the latest classroom sensation designed to keep those busy hands occupied and minds focused. 

Fidget toys are small objects that students can manipulate with their hands. They include stress balls, fidget spinners, cubes, putty, and even rubber bands stretched across chair legs. The idea is simple – keep the hands busy to help the mind focus.

Fidget toys became mainstream in classrooms around 2016, thanks to the fidget spinner craze. Teachers began experimenting with them as tools to help students with ADHD and other focusing difficulties. 

The results? Mixed, to say the least. Do they really work? Are they the godsend some claim them to be? 

Let’s unravel this together.

How Do Fidgets Help With Learning?

A study published in 2022 investigated if fidget spinners could improve on-task behavior in students with ADHD. Researchers provided fidget spinners to three second-grade students and monitored their behavior during language arts classes. 

The results showed a significant increase in on-task behavior while using the spinners. This aligns with other studies suggesting kids with ADHD benefit from small movements.

Fidgets can also help manage stress. Squeezing a stress ball or rolling putty can release tension, making it easier for students to concentrate on their work. Sensory toys like these can provide the “right” kind of stimulation kids need.

Having something to fidget with lets students direct their excess energy away from disruptive actions. This allows them to pay attention to the lesson. It’s like having a tiny, quiet outlet for all that bottled-up energy.

The Downsides of Allowing Fidgets in the Classroom

Not everything about fidget toys is positive. A study from 2020 found that while fidget spinners reduced some disruptive behaviors, they didn’t help students pay better attention. In some cases, they even impaired memory performance and academic outcomes.

The sad truth is that some students might misuse these toys, turning them into distractions rather than tools for focus. Tossing a stress ball across the room or spinning a fidget spinner on a nose can quickly disrupt the class.

So does this negate the effectiveness for everyone? Not necessarily – don’t throw the baby out with the bath water, as the old saying goes. Instead, consider the tips below to help make sure you’re using fidgets in the most productive way possible. 

Tips for Using Fidgets in the Classroom

With that in mind, here are some tips for using fidgets in your classroom so you can maximize the benefits and minimize the risks:

1. Find Fidgets That Are Quiet and Non-Distracting

First off, not all fidgets are created equal. You want to find ones that are quiet and won’t draw attention away from the lesson. Fidgets made of rubber or soft plastic are typically less noisy. Avoid brightly colored options, as they can be too flashy and distracting. In general, the lower-tech, the better. Plain, simple, and effective is the way to go.

Choosing the right kind of fidget is crucial. Think stress balls, bendable sticks, or small, textured items that can be manipulated quietly. Stay clear of anything with bells, whistles, or bright lights. 

2. Make Sure They’re Serving a Purpose

Fidgets should be more than just a trendy classroom accessory – they need to serve a purpose. 

Identify what that purpose is first. Is it helping a kid focus? Why is the behavior happening in the first place? Is the child just energetic, or do they have difficulty with sensory needs?

Understanding the root cause of a student’s need for a fidget can help you determine the best approach. Conduct observations and talk to the student to figure out what they need. Maybe they’re not just restless; they could have sensory processing issues that need addressing.

Once you’ve identified the purpose, you can choose the most appropriate fidget. This ensures that the tool is meeting a real need and isn’t just a distraction.

3. Have a Plan to Transition Out of Fidgets

While fidgets can be incredibly helpful, you don’t want them to become a permanent crutch. Have a plan in place to transition students away from relying on fidgets over time. This might involve gradually reducing the amount of time they use the fidget or introducing alternative coping strategies.

Transitioning out of fidgets should be a gradual process. Start by limiting their use to specific times or activities. Slowly reduce the dependence on the fidget as the student learns to use other strategies to stay focused.

The goal is to help students develop self-regulation skills – fidgets can be a great starting point, but they shouldn’t be the end game.

4. Consider Alternatives to Fidgets

Fidgets are great, but they’re not the only tool in your toolbox. Stress balls, letting students stand to work, using alternative seating like a therapy ball, or using kick bands on students’ chairs are all viable options. You can even stick Velcro on the desk for students to touch or manipulate.

Offer a variety of options. Some students might prefer a stress ball, while others might benefit more from standing desks or kick bands.

By providing multiple alternatives, you’re giving students the flexibility to choose the tool that helps them focus best. This individualized approach can lead to better outcomes for everyone.

5. Create Fidget “Rules”

To make sure that fidgets are used appropriately, establish clear rules. These might include “I put the fidget away when I’m done,” “I keep it on my desk or in my hands,” and “I think about whether I actually need it.” Reinforce that fidgets are tools, not toys, and should be used responsibly.

Having rules in place sets clear expectations for how fidgets should be used. This helps prevent them from becoming distractions or being used improperly.

Review the rules regularly and provide gentle reminders as needed. Consistency is key to ensuring that fidgets are used effectively.

6. Individualize the Approach

Different types of fidgets work best for different students. Some students may put things in their mouths, while others may prefer different textures. Individualize your approach to find what works best for each student.

Spend time observing each student to understand their specific needs and preferences. This will help you tailor your approach and choose the most effective fidgets.

Should Fidgets Be Allowed in Class?

Fidgets can be a powerful tool for helping students focus, but they need to be used thoughtfully and purposefully. By following these tips and individualizing your approach, you can make fidgets a valuable part of your classroom strategy.

When used correctly, fidgets can help kids focus, reduce anxiety, and improve their overall learning experience. However, it’s important to choose the right fidgets, set clear rules, and have a plan for transitioning away from them over time.

If you’re looking for more resources and support in creating an inclusive classroom environment, consider exploring more of our resources at the Stanfield Company. We offer educational curriculum and resources specifically designed for teachers who want to help their students succeed within the classroom and out.

Get started today. Your students will thank you!