We’re Using Fidgets Wrong (And How to Fix It)

Okay, I need to say something that might be an unpopular opinion: fidgets are being overused.

And I say this as an occupational therapist who genuinely loves a good fidget tool. But here's what's happening—fidgets have become trendy. They're everywhere. Kids are using them all day long, throwing them across the room during math, and teachers are (understandably) OVER IT.

When fidgets aren't used correctly, they stop being therapeutic tools and start being just another thing teachers have to manage in already overstuffed classrooms. And our teachers are managing SO MUCH already (behavior plans, IEPs, differentiated instruction, literal life skills like tying shoes... I could go on…).

So let's talk about how to actually make fidgets work the way they're supposed to work—as tools, not toys.

What to Tell Kids About Fidgets

When I introduce a fidget to a child, here's what I explain:

• This fidget is a tool. Just like we use pencils for writing and scissors for cutting, fidgets are tools to help your body do its job. This isn't a toy. It has a purpose.

• You should only use it when it helps you. Reach for your fidget when you need to calm your body down, focus better on your work, or help yourself get ready to learn. If you notice it's not helping—or if you're distracted—it's time to put it away.

• If it distracts you, stop using it (or your teacher might tell you to stop using it). That's not your teacher being mean. That's your teacher recognizing the tool isn't working right now. And that's okay! Not every tool works for every person or every situation.

• It shouldn't be used all day, or it won't work for your body the same way anymore. Here's the thing about our bodies—they adapt. They get used to things. If you use your fidget constantly, all day, every day, your body will stop responding to it as strongly. Think of it like your favorite song. If you played it on repeat 24/7, eventually you wouldn't even hear it anymore, right? Same with fidgets. Use them when you need them, not just because they're there.

What to Tell Teachers About Fidgets

Teachers, you are the gatekeepers here. You have the power to make fidgets actually work in your classroom—you just have to teach the tool first. And not in a moment when a child is having a tough time. Here's how to set everyone up for success:

• Teach students how to use them. Don't assume kids know what fidgets are for or how to use them appropriately. Take five to ten minutes to explain what they're for (regulation, focus), when to use them (when your body needs help), and what misuse looks like (throwing, distracting others, playing). Role play how you pick one and use it, and finish/put it away.

• Share with the whole class to normalize using fidgets as a tool. When fidgets are only given to certain students, it can make those kids feel singled out. I like to teach classes that "everyone gets what they need, not the same thing" (equity vs. equality), and ideally, that's how it would work. But realistically? Some kids just don't like being the only one using a tool, and some parents don't like it either. Consider making a fidget basket available to everyone who needs it. This normalizes sensory tools and actually reduces stigma. Not everyone will use them, and that's fine! But making them available to all sends the message that bodies have different needs and that's totally okay.

• Explain that if the fidgets are thrown, used incorrectly, or overused they will not be a tool in the classroom anymore. Be clear and consistent with boundaries. If a fidget becomes a distraction, gets thrown, or is being misused, it gets taken away. This isn't punishment—it's a natural consequence of the tool not serving its purpose.

• The goal is for them to help you get yourself back to your classroom jobs, work, play, etc. Not to be thrown, distractions and cause more problems. Keep bringing it back to this. Fidgets should help students regulate so they can participate in learning. If they're causing MORE problems than they're solving, it's time to reassess whether that particular fidget (or fidgets in general) is working for that student.

My All-Time Favorite Fidget

The Nee Doh Ice Cube line. My favorite is the teenie  “Nice Ice Baby” - it is the most durable and at 1.25 inches, it’s easy to conceal/less distracting!

Image from https://myneedoh.com/nee-doh-nice-cube/

I love this fidget because it checks all the boxes for what makes a good classroom tool. It's affordable, durable, and—this is KEY—quiet. Unlike fidget spinners that often make noise and distract everyone around the user, this one is subtle and non-disruptive to others.

Now, not all Nee Doh fidgets are the same, so let me be specific here. My recommendation is the Ice Cube line: Nice Berg, Nice Cube, and Nice Ice Baby (the mini version). When you squish, twist, or smash these, they recover slowly—and that's what makes them special. The slower recovery rate is what sets them apart from other Nee Doh products. This can also be really helpful for practicing slow breathing because the slower rate at which this material squishes and recovers naturally encourages a calmer, more regulated pace.

It has a great bounce-back quality and goes right back to its shape, which is so satisfying for kids who need that proprioceptive input. I also like that it's a texture that appeals to a lot of different sensory needs: not too squishy, not too textured, not too hard. It's kind of the Goldilocks of fidgets—just right for many kids. But of course, this is a preference, and you should consider your child's or student's specific sensory profile before purchasing! What works for one kid might not work for another, and that's just fine.

The Bottom Line

Fidgets can be incredible tools when used correctly. But they're not magic. They're not going to solve every attention or regulation challenge, and they definitely won't work if we treat them as trendy accessories that kids use all day long without intention. I’m hoping that the above information helps you not cringe or roll your eyes at the question “Have you tried a fidget?”

With proper education, clear boundaries, and realistic expectations, fidgets can do what they're meant to do: help kids regulate their nervous systems so they can focus, learn, and participate.

Teachers, I see you. You're already doing the work of ten people. Let's make sure fidgets are actually helping—not adding one more thing to your already overflowing plate.

Disclaimers:

P.S. I only link to products I use and love. If you purchase through one of the affiliate links above, I may earn a small fee. Thank you!

P.P.S. This is general educational information based on my experience as an OT. It's not a substitute for individualized occupational therapy services. If you have questions about whether fidgets are appropriate for your child or student, consult with their medical provider, OT, or school team!