Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults. As it often involves symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsiveness, ADHD can make it difficult to focus on daily tasks. While treatment often involves medication and therapy, many people look for alternative strategies to help manage their symptoms. One such method gaining popularity is the use of fidget toys. But do fidget toys really help with ADHD? Let’s explore their potential benefits and how they work.
What Is ADHD? The Basics Explained
ADHD is a condition that affects millions of people around the world and is commonly diagnosed in childhood. People with ADHD may struggle with maintaining attention on tasks, following instructions, and regulating their emotions. Symptoms can manifest in various ways, from struggling to sit still to impulsive decision-making.
ADHD is treated with a combination of medication, such as stimulants or non-stimulants, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. However, many people may look for additional strategies, such as using fidget toys, to manage symptoms. Fidget toys are one of the newer approaches being explored in ADHD treatment, claiming to improve focus and reduce anxiety.
What Are Fidget Toys? Definition and Purpose
Fidget toys are small handheld tools designed to engage the sense of touch and provide an outlet for excess energy. They typically involve repetitive movements or actions, such as spinning, squeezing, or clicking. Some common types include:
- Fidget spinners
- Fidget cubes
- Squishy toys
- Textured putty
The goal of fidget toys that help with ADHD is to provide a sensory outlet that can help reduce restlessness, increase concentration, and relieve stress.
What Does the Research Say?
Previous research by Julie Schweitzer showed that fidgeting without a device improved cognitive function in children with ADHD. A study using a baseline, intervention, withdrawal of intervention, and reintroduction of intervention (ABAB) or withdrawal design found that access to a Fidget Cube didn’t help attention difficulties for three third graders in the study. Using fidget spinners in a classroom was associated with a decrease in gross motor activity but didn’t improve attention. However, a study by Aspiranti and Hulac (2021) found greater on-task rates for students with ADHD when using a fidget spinner.
Simple fidgeting tools such as textured putty or squeezy balls can be helpful, while fidget spinners can be distracting. According to Matthew Lorber MD, a child psychiatrist in New York, if you’re trying to focus on a task but your hands are busy doing something else, it forces your brain to focus on the task at hand. Professionals treating ADHD often see fidget toys as distractions, as they can capture the user’s attention and distract other students. Brief amounts of exercise are beneficial in addition to or instead of using fidget toys for improving attention in children with ADHD.
How Do Fidget Toys Help? Addressing Symptoms of ADHD
While research on fidget toys and ADHD is still evolving, many studies suggest they can offer certain benefits. There are various anecdotal benefits of fidget toys.
Improved Focus
Fidget tools for ADHD offer a way to engage the hands, which can help people concentrate better on the task at hand. Studies have shown that for some people, engaging in light fidgeting can increase cognitive function by encouraging the brain to focus more on the task itself rather than becoming distracted by external stimuli. In short, fidgeting may act as a gentle distraction from other distractions.
Reduction in Restlessness
Many individuals with ADHD experience restlessness or hyperactivity. Fidget toys provide an outlet for this excess energy. Moving or manipulating the toy can reduce the need for more disruptive movements, such as tapping feet or shifting in seats. Some research has shown that simple tools such as squeezy balls or textured putty can be particularly effective for this purpose.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Fidget toys can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common in those with ADHD. The repetitive nature of fidgeting can have a calming effect, lowering stress levels. This can be particularly beneficial in environments that require prolonged focus, such as classrooms or offices.
Enhanced Emotional Regulation
ADHD often affects emotional regulation, leading to impulsive reactions and difficulty managing emotions. Fidget toys can help people with ADHD redirect energy productively. This offers a more controlled outlet for emotions and helps manage emotional outbursts.
Varieties of Fidget Toys: From Spinners to Squishies
Fidget toys come in various shapes, sizes, and functions. Different types may work better for different people depending on their preferences and needs. Here are some of the best fidget toys for ADHD:
- Fidget spinners: These small, spinning devices became a viral sensation and remain popular for those with ADHD. While some research suggests they may help with restlessness, they can be distracting in certain environments, such as classrooms.
- Fidget cubes: These cubes feature multiple buttons, switches, and dials that can be clicked, pressed, or rotated. They’re designed to provide a tactile experience, making them useful for those who need something to engage their hands while thinking.
- Squishy toys: Soft, squeezable toys can help release tension. The act of squeezing can provide a sensory experience that calms the user.
- Textured putty: Putty or clay-like substances that can be molded and squished. This type of fidget toy can help people focus on tasks without making noise or drawing attention.
Do Fidget Toys Help With ADHD?
Fidget toys may offer benefits for those with ADHD, such as increased concentration and an outlet for restless energy. However, their effectiveness varies depending on the person and the type of ADHD. While some studies show that fidget toys help with attention and focus, others find they may be distracting. If you or someone you know has ADHD, it may be worth trying fidget toys to see if they help.
When selecting fidget toys for ADHD, some people prefer quiet toys that don’t attract attention, while others benefit from toys with more movement or sound. Finding the right toy and using it in the right context is key. As research on this subject continues, fidget toys may become an increasingly valuable tool for managing ADHD.
Visit NeuroHealth for Neuropsychological Testing
Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for managing ADHD. If you suspect you or your child may have ADHD, visit NeuroHealth for a neuropsychological assessment. Our expert team can help assess ADHD symptoms and offer guidance on effective treatments tailored to your or your child’s needs. Contact us today to arrange an assessment in Arlington Heights.
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