What Is A "fidget?"

If we were business executives we would call them "stress toys," and our desks would be full of them! Fidgets (and stress toys) really do de-stress the body and help increase focus and attention. Fidgets have particular properties that intrigue our sensory systems. The components could be the:

• Interesting tactile composition
• Heaviness or pliability of the product
• Movement opportunities it provides our hands
• The unique visual patterns it creates
• Combination of all the above

Adults most frequently use their fidgets near the telephone. Language production is a high-level task and creates both positive and negative stress in our system.

Many schools today have one common rule. No toys allowed at school. However, in this language-filled learning environment, some teachers and speech-and-language therapists consider fidgets tools, not toys, and create a toolbox that can be manipulated during circle time, discussion groups or where focus is required.

Remember, when, "sit still and pay attention" isn't enough to get them paying attention, that's when fidgets work best!

For a wide selection of fidgets, order a FREE copy of the Integrations catalog today.

©2002 Integrations - a division of Sportime, LLC. This material may be used for individual, educational use only.