Regulating Through the Senses: The Power of Fidgets for Children

Sitting still and staying focused for extended periods can be a real challenge for children. Some feel that fidget toys can be a cause of distraction, but for children trying to manage big emotions, fidgets can play a powerful and positive role. Fidget toys come in all sizes but are generally compact and portable, therefore ideal for use in the home to aid relaxing, in social settings to ease anxiety and in the classroom where attention is required for learning. 

The Role of Fidgets

Unlike traditional toys meant for play, fidgets are used intentionally to help children organise their bodies and minds, so they are ready to learn. When sensory input is introduced, this helps the brain and body feel more “centred.”

They are especially helpful for children who need sensory input to stay regulated, attentive, or emotionally balanced and this in turn helps to:

Reduce Anxiety
Enhance Concentration
Address Sensory Needs

Which Fidgets Support Self-Regulation

With so many types of fidgets available, individual preferences can vary widely from person to person, which is why it’s important to discover which fidgets resonate most with your child. Fidget kits are an excellent way to explore this, as they include a diverse range of fidgets intentionally selected to provide input that would include tactile, auditory, and visual features. 

Auditory Fidgets

For children who seek auditory input, these tools can help reduce restlessness and improve attention. Examples include, soft clickers, pop tubes, low-noise sensory rings.

Visual Input

Visual sensory tools help children who benefit from watching movement, colour, or light. Examples include Liquid Motion Timers, Glitter wands, Ribbons, Visual Tracking Toys.

Tactile Input

Many children regulate through touch. Tactile fidgets provide physical input that helps children feel secure, calm, and focused. Examples include Stress Balls, Textured rings, squishy toys, stretchy toys and sensory fabric patches/Mohu patches. This is so personal to each individual it's important to recognise that a texture which is soothing to one person might be uncomforting to another.

Choosing the Right Fidget

Not every fidget works for every child. Observation and trial are key in finding the right fit. The best fidgets:

• Match the child’s sensory preferences
• Are appropriate for the setting (classroom, home, therapy)
• Are safe, durable, and easy to clean
• Encourage calm, repetitive movement

Conclusion

Fidgets are not trendy tools - they are valuable supports that help children learn how their bodies work and how to care for their own sensory needs. By offering auditory, visual, and tactile input, these tools help children feel regulated, confident, and ready to learn. These tools can make sitting, listening, and learning much more comfortable. When we support self-regulation, we support lifelong learning. It is important to recognize the role of the fidget as an aid rather than a distraction.