Are you a parent of a child with Autism? Are you always looking for strategies to help your child thrive in their unique way.

One tool that has become increasingly popular are fidgets. Many people often see fidget toys as mere distractions, but they offer real benefits. They can help improve focus, encourage self-control, and keep kids calm in stressful situations.

Why Fidgets?

Fidget toys are small objects that children can manipulate, such as spinning, squeezing, clicking, or twisting. They are simple, but they can help children with autism. These children may have trouble with self-regulation, focus, or handling strong emotions.

Here’s how they help:

1. Supporting Focus and Concentration

Children with autism may have trouble focusing on tasks. This is especially true in school or during structured activities. Their environment, internal thoughts, or even their own bodies might easily distract them.

By keeping their hands busy, their minds stay clearer and more focused on the main task. It’s like how some adults doodle in meetings to stay focused. The movement gives a small outlet that helps clear the brain’s clutter.

2. Self-Regulation and Emotional Control

Fidget toys can be an excellent tool for helping children with autism regulate their emotions. Everyday activities like transitions between tasks, new environments, or unexpected changes can cause stress or anxiety. Having a familiar, comforting object to focus on can help a child feel more grounded and in control of their emotions.

For example, if your child feels anxious during long car rides or while waiting in lines, a fidget toy can help. A clicker, snap bracelet, or simple sensory ring can keep them calm and patient. The toy serves as a small but effective coping mechanism to prevent the escalation of feelings of overwhelm.

3. Reducing Impulsive Behaviours

Children with autism may act impulsively. This can lead to behaviours like interrupting, moving around the classroom, or repeating actions. Fidget toys can provide a safer, more controlled outlet for this energy.

If your child taps their fingers, moves around a lot, or feels restless in class, a fidget spinner or tangle toy can help. These toys allow them to release energy safely. These toys provide a safe way to release energy. This helps them stay seated, follow instructions, and participate properly in the setting without being disruptive.

4. Creating a Sense of Comfort

Children with autism often thrive in environments with predictability and routine. Fidget toys can provide a sense of comfort in new or busy places. This is helpful when traveling, exploring, or during holidays.

Having a favourite fidget toy that your child can carry in their pocket or backpack can offer reassurance. Whether they are entering a new classroom, meeting new people, or starting school, this small object can provide comfort. You can wear a simple fidget bracelet or a discreet spinner ring throughout the day, keeping it available as a tool for self-soothing.

Best Types of Fidget Toys for Children with Autism

Not every fidget toy will work for every child. You’ll want to experiment with different options to see what fits your child’s preferences and needs. Below are a few types that are especially useful for children with autism:

• Fidget Spinners: These are simple, small toys that spin when held between two fingers. They can help with both focus and reducing impulsive behaviour. The popularity of using a fidget spinner in schools has gone down because of misuse. However, they can still help children who benefit from repetitive motion.
• Fidget Cubes: Fidget cubes are small cubes with different fidget activities. They include clicking buttons, turning gears, and flipping switches. Their variety makes them useful for children who like having options.

• Stress Balls: Stress balls are simple, squeezable toys that can help children relieve pent-up energy or frustration. They’re great for quiet, calming fidgeting.

• Tangle Toys: These are small, twistable, connected pieces that can be manipulated in multiple directions. Tangles are useful for children who need something more complex to occupy their hands without being too distracting.
• Worry stones: feature a smooth, flat surface with an indentation that people rub with their thumbs. They are very discreet and can be a comforting tool to help children self-regulate without drawing attention.

Tips for Parents

• Start Small: If your child is new to fidget toys, start with something small and simple, like a stress ball or worry stone. Observe how your child responds, and gradually introduce other options if needed.
• Test Different Textures and Movements: Some children prefer soft, squishy toys, while others like harder, more durable ones. Let your child explore various textures and movements to see what works best.
• Be Aware of School Policies: Some schools have restrictions on fidget toys, especially spinners. Check with your child’s teacher to ensure the toys are appropriate for the classroom.

Fidget toys are more than just a passing trend — they can be incredibly useful tools for children with autism. They provide a simple way to improve focus, manage emotions, and control impulses. This support can help your child do well in school, get along with others, and handle daily life.

As always, observe what works best for your child, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of toys. With the right fidget toy in hand, your child can experience greater calm, control, and concentration throughout their day.