Are you a fidgeter? Do you struggle with Anxiety or ADHD? Fidgeting is a natural outlet for anxious energy. You might bounce your knee, twirl your hair, or tap your fingers when you are feeling stressed. Using a fidget toy is a way to self-regulate and it helps with focus, active listening, and calming, according to Flushing Hospital in NY. This works by providing a distraction and intentional sensory input, which is helpful if you are feeling overstimulated. People with ADHD often unwittingly fidget as a way to cope with ADHD. Forbes says the repetitive movements are thought to promote stimulant release to increase focus in people with attention disorders. Instead of fighting your nature, you can use a fidget toy to give your body something to do so that your mind can focus.
Below are some of my favorite fidget toys. I am providing Amazon links for your convenience. They are affiliate links, which means that True Connections will earn a small percentage if you make a purchase.
Comfort Food This cute little oreo cookie has skulls on it when you look closer. You might enjoy twisting and sliding the sides- just don’t try to eat it. Fidget Slider Haptic Coin for Adults
Splat Squeeze, stretch, and even play catch with this fun shaped stress ball. Speks Blots Silicone Stress Ball
The Gamer This small fidget toy offers a lot of fidgeting options. Click, switch, scroll or spin- there are 14 ways to use it! Fidget Pad
Fancy Pants These smooth worry stones are great for soothing anxiety. You can easily keep one of these pretty stones in your pocket so it’s handy when you need it. Jovivi Thumb Worry Stone
Desktop Pet Need a cute, squishable companion? Adopt one of these: Zen-Guin , Stress Hog , Kalma Kitty , or Calma Llama
Sleek This classy toy spins around one finger and is unobtrusive. Yogi Fidget Toy
Monster Mash This big, scented monster is very satisfying to squish and watch slowly pop back up. Jumbo Squishies Green Monster
Sources: Flushing Hospital Newsletter Health Beat https://www.flushinghospital.org/newsletter/can-fidget-toys-help-your-childs-ability-to-focus/ Your Guide to Anxiety Fidget Toys https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/fidget-toys-for-anxiety/#:~:text=Fidget%20toys%20give%20these%20movements,a%20temporary%20form%20of%20relief.
Additional Resources: Harness Fidgeting to Improve Focus https://chadd.org/attention-article/harness-fidgeting-to-improve-focus/ Fidget Toys for Anxiety https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/anxiety/fidget-toys-for-anxiety/