Fidgets – Elementary

Fidgets have rapidly become an essential tool in many elementary classrooms, offering a wealth of benefits for both educators and students. Teachers often incorporate fidgets to help students maintain focus during lessons, manage anxiety, and increase engagement in classroom activities. By providing a small, discrete item that students can manipulate, teachers can significantly reduce distractions and create a more focused learning environment. For example, during reading time or a particularly long lecture, students with fidget toys tend to be more attentive and less prone to disruptive behaviors. Another common use is during transitions between subjects or activities, where a minute or two with a fidget can help students reset and refocus.

When selecting fidget products for an elementary classroom, there are three crucial tips to keep in mind. First, consider the sensory needs of your students. Some children might benefit from tactile experiences, so items like stress balls or textured fidgets could be ideal. Second, portability and durability are key. Choose items that are small enough to be used discreetly and built to withstand the wear and tear typical of a busy classroom environment. Third, assess your classroom’s noise level since some fidgets can be quite noisy and distracting to other students. Opt for quiet fidgets that won’t cause additional distractions.

Fidgets can be beneficial across various age ranges in elementary schools, typically from kindergarten through fifth grade, encompassing ages five to eleven. When purchasing fidgets for this particular age group, it’s essential to consider that younger children may require larger, more durable fidgets that are easy to hold and manipulate, while older children might prefer more complex or subtle designs. At the elementary level, safety is paramount; ensure that all fidget toys are non-toxic, free from small parts that could be swallowed, and generally feature rounded edges to prevent any injury. In contrast to middle or high school classrooms, where fidgets might be used more for stress relief and anxiety management, elementary educators should focus on selecting fidgets that enhance concentration and aid in developmental sensory processing.