Learning Diversity
Fidgets not Toys
There has been a lot of discussion lately with teachers and psychologists on fidgets in the classrooms and how they are designed to help students not hinder them. Toys such as squishies are not permitted at school and fidgets are only allowed in classrooms if your child presents with a learning need and there has been a recomendation from an Allied Health Professional.
How to Choose the Right Fidget Toy for a Classroom
Not all fidgets are created equal, especially when you bring them into a busy classroom. Picking the right fidget toys for school isn’t about finding a fun gadget; it’s about choosing a purposeful tool that helps a child focus without distracting everyone else. The real goal is to find something that meets their sensory needs quietly and discreetly.
The secret is matching the toy to the specific sensory input a child is looking for. For a student who needs that constant touch-based feedback, a small, silent option like one of the popular Kaiko Fidgets can be a game-changer. They’re durable, designed for quiet, one-handed fiddling. On the other hand, for a child who settles with deep pressure, a soft, squeezable toy like a Needoh ball gives them a silent way to release tension during class time.
How Do I Know if the Fidget Toy Is Actually Helping?
You'll know it's working by watching the outcome. A truly helpful tool lets a child keep their eyes up and their mind on the lesson. Are they getting more work done? Are they participating more in class discussions? These are great signs.
On the flip side, if you see them staring down at the toy, it’s making noise, or it’s becoming a point of contention with other kids, it’s probably not the right choice. Finding the perfect match can take a bit of trial and error, so regular check-ins with your child and their teacher are key.
Here are a few rules to follow.
- The Fidget Stays in My Hand or on My Desk: This rule stops the fidget from being thrown, dropped, or passed around. It keeps the tool in the student's personal space where it belongs.
- It Must Be Silent: A fidget should never make noise that could distract other kids or the teacher. This is where choosing a quiet tool like a metal fidget over a clicky one really matters.
- My Eyes Stay on the Teacher: This brings it right back to the "hand tool, not eye toy" principle, reminding the student where their focus should be.
- The Fidget is Just for Me: Fidget tools are individual supports, not things to be shared around. This rule prevents them from becoming a social distraction.
The Teacher Can Ask Me to Put It Away: This is crucial. It establishes the teacher’s authority and provides a clear consequence if the rules aren't being followed, ensuring they remain in control of the classroom.
Here is the full article for your reference shared from Alex Boys Connecting OT.
- FIDGETS ARTICLE -OT perspective
NCCD
This August our school was part of the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data Census. In my role I oversee the NCCD and work with teachers, families and students so every child has access to the curriculum and works to their full potential. We run PSG (Program Support Group) meetings to support families so we are all working towards the same goals. For further information please read this NCCD Information sheet or pop in and see me at the front office.
Brigid Pennington
Learning Diversity Leader