Remember fidget spinners? The three-lobed plastic gadgets coveted by 13-year-old boys and subsequently banned by schools across the UK?
Well, it seems as if there are grounds for the buzz behind the oddly satisfying toys which came to light in 2017.
We all fidget, be it during work, meetings or school. For those who twitch and squirm on the regular, it can be cathartic to have a sensory mechanism to help soothe the mind via physical movement.
Fidget toys provide distraction for those who are feeling on-edge. They help to relieve nervous energy, making them popular among those who experience anxiety, ADHD or any form of emotional stress.
While the scientific evidence behind the effect of fidget toys on those with ADHD, PTSD, autism and anxiety is generally limited, there are a handful of scientists exploring this ground. One 2018 paper states: “It is known that games in general, and specifically those requiring fine manipulation (e.g. video games), may improve coordination, precision and dexterity. As such, a plausible assumption is that the same may also be accomplished by fidget spinners.”
Likewise, a 2007 study found the presence of objects such as fidget toys in the classroom beneficial for students, noting: Results suggest that fine motor manipulation of a tactile stimulation object reduced excessive motor movement and increased task completion of students with attention problems.” This theory is supported by a more recent 2020 paper, that posited that in a study involving children with autism in a group setting: “The application of fidget spinners resulted in a reduction of movements that were disrupting the rest of the group.”
Regardless of how you feel about the effectiveness of fidget toys, enthusiasts will always seek out new options to help keep their peace.
Discover the best fidget toys for adults and ensure you have an outlet for when anxiety-stricken moments arise.
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ONO Roller Rose Gold (The Original) Handheld Fidget Toy for Adults
A chic, sensory fidget tool for adults, this ONO roller rotates in the palm of your hand when distraction is needed.
It helps to relieve tension while improving dexterity and keeps bad habits, such as nail biting, restless legs and checking your phone. The pocket-sized piece is easily portable, meaning you can take yours to the office every day.
Buy now £37.99, Amazon
Sterling Silver Spinner Ring
Crafted from perfectly hammered sterling silver, this stylish, toy-like spinning ring features a thin, delicate silver spinning band. Sophisticated and functional, this is a brilliant option for those looking to add to their bustling silver jewellery collection while also working to help relieve day-to-day anxieties.
Buy now £36.00, Etsy
Ace of Spades Fidget Toy
Ensure you always have an ace up your sleeve with a card-themed fidget aide. It features twelve magnets that let you spin, slide and click through 15 positions during moments of unease or nervousness.
Buy now £9.99, Etsy
Glow in a Dark DNA Stress Ball Balloon Dog
Squish and squeeze to your heart's content with a stress ball. Perfect for those prone to anxiety, this affordable toy provides instant anxiety relief. Plus it’s glow-in-the-dark and makes a great gift for animal lovers.
Buy now £6.99, Amazon
Steemjoey Cube Fidget Toy
A more sophisticated version of the fidget spinner for people who need to keep their hands distracted, discreetly. The pocket-sized desk toy has tactile surfaces that let you click, spin, rub and flip to your heart’s content.
Buy now £5.99, Amazon
Amelie Mini Switch Sensory Fidget
Customise your very own fidget toy with Fidgets by Amelie’s generous offering. Handmade and small enough to discreetly hold in your hand, the pastel-toned piece can be crafted from tones of your choice. Intended for those over 14 years old, the toy is ready for busy hands in need of a switch up.
Buy now £11.00, Etsy
Axolotl Pick Pad
Another option ripe for the picking (sorry), this pretty, blue pick pad is ideal for those who struggle with skin picking and need an outlet for nervous energy. Made from premium latex-free silicone rubber, the fidget-friendly tool helps to redirect unwanted habits.
Buy now £15.19, Etsy
Jammie Dodger Fidget Slider
An uber-realistic sliding fidget toy inspired by the UK’s favourite jam-filled biscuit, the Jammie Dodger sliding toy is ideal for sweet tooths whose mind likes to wander. Customise the tempting piece to add a touch of personalisation.
Buy now £11.50, Etsy
Tiny Baby Axolotl Flexi Toy Sensory Fidget School Autism Focus Toy
Adorable and affordable, this axolotl toy is designed with fidgeters in mind - particularly those with anxiety or autism. Keep yours handy during intense exam seasons or for easy everyday use. The malleable toy provides a tactile and sensory experience when needed. Simply squeeze and allow the nerves to wash over.
Buy now £3.00, Etsy
Duck Picky Pad
Bid farewell to skin picking with a picky pad to hand. Available in three various shapes (or as a set), the colourful tool is a great antidote for twitchy hands wanting to scratch and squirm.
Buy now £4.73, Amazon
