Therapeutic Fidget Toys: Enhancing Focus for ADHD

Therapeutic Toys for ADHD: Enhancing Focus and Engagement

If you’re supporting a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you might be interested in toys that offer genuine benefits for managing ADHD symptoms. Toys that enhance memory, support focus, develop motor skills, and reduce stress can be particularly beneficial. Options like worry stones, fidget cubes, and Silly Putty may provide effective support. For personalized guidance in helping a child with ADHD, consider connecting with a mental health professional through ReachLink’s telehealth therapy services.

How fidget toys can benefit individuals with ADHD

According to CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), fidgeting may improve attention, enhance memory recall, and boost problem-solving abilities for people with ADHD. Research suggests that fidgeting can improve attention and focus as well as cognitive performance.

Physical outlets for excess energy

Having a tangible way to release excess energy, such as a fidget toy, may improve performance on tasks, according to researchers.

Most fidget toys are designed to keep hands occupied while helping develop fine motor skills and enhancing concentration. They’re often marketed as calming tools that reduce self-stimulatory behaviors like tapping and kicking. These tools include items such as magnetic balls and spinners.

Balancing benefits against potential distractions

CHADD notes that some elaborate fidget toys lack scientific evidence supporting their benefits and might actually create distractions. However, simpler fidget tools like squeezy balls or Silly Putty can provide children with a quiet outlet for fidgeting. CHADD experts typically recommend unobtrusive, quiet options such as squeeze balls, fidget cubes, chewing gum, and worry stones.

What parents say about fidget toys for ADHD

While expert opinions on fidget toys vary, many parents report positive outcomes for their children. One study examining the perspectives of 129 parents found that parents of neurodivergent children generally “perceived fidget toys and fidget spinners to be overall more beneficial” than parents of neurotypical children, particularly for reducing anxiety.

Recommended fidget toys for ADHD

ADDitude Magazine suggests the following fidget toys and tools:

• Tangles: These classic ADHD toys can be disassembled and reconfigured in various ways. They come in bright colors and are primarily designed for younger children.
• The Monkey Ring: This spiky ring fidget is intended for sensory processing needs, allowing for squeezing, twisting, or rolling against the skin—helpful for self-soothing when a child feels over-stimulated.
• Bouncy Bands: These footrests attach to a child’s desk or chair to prevent disruptive kicking and scraping.
• Wikki Stix: Made from wax and yarn, these toys allow children to squish, bend, and sculpt, potentially improving focus, providing sensory stimulation, and developing fine motor skills.
• Silly Putty: This enduring classic can be stretched and molded into various shapes. It’s versatile, quiet, and may help build motor skills.
• Fidget spinners: Designed to be held between the thumb and middle finger and spun freely, these may help children alleviate stress and improve focus while reducing more disruptive behavior.

It’s worth noting that fidget spinners can be controversial, especially in classroom settings. Some schools argue that they distract other students and could cause harm if thrown.

Sensory toys for ADHD

Sensory toys aim to reduce stress and provide varied sensory experiences—from smell and sight to touch and sound. These might include chewable necklaces, weighted blankets for anxiety reduction, balance boards for coordination improvement, and scented bubbles.

What to consider before purchasing fidget toys

Before buying a fidget toy, evaluate its appropriateness, the child’s specific needs, and potential benefits and risks. Check your child’s school policy regarding fidget toys and whether they provide any in their resource center.

Key questions when selecting a fidget toy

Consider this checklist:

• Is the toy small, quiet, and unobtrusive?
• Could it potentially cause injury if thrown?
• Is it a trendy toy that might attract unwanted attention? Could a less conspicuous alternative serve the same purpose?

Physical activity’s impact on ADHD symptoms

Vigorous movement has been associated with “better cognitive control performance” in children with ADHD. According to one study involving 44 children with ADHD, “more intense movement was associated with better performance” in the ADHD group.” Without the opportunity to fidget, children with ADHD typically performed worse on assigned tasks.

Evidence also indicates that physical exercise can improve ADHD symptoms and executive function.

Therapeutic support for parents of children with ADHD

Managing a child’s ADHD symptoms can be challenging. If you feel you could benefit from professional guidance, connecting with a licensed therapist can provide valuable support.

When convenience is important, telehealth therapy offers an excellent solution. ReachLink’s virtual therapy platform allows you to meet with licensed mental health professionals through secure video sessions at times that fit your schedule.

Telehealth therapy effectiveness for ADHD challenges

Extensive research indicates that telehealth therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. One study concluded that online and in-person therapy typically produce the same client outcomes when addressing various mental health concerns.

Conclusion

Fidgeting may help individuals with ADHD improve attention, memory recall, and problem-solving abilities. When selecting toys, consider appropriateness, the child’s specific needs and interests, and potential benefits and risks. Effective options include Tangles, Bouncy Bands, Wikki Stix, and fidget spinners. For additional support in helping your child with ADHD, consider connecting with a mental health professional through ReachLink’s family therapy services.

Frequently asked questions

What types of sensory toys work best for ADHD?

Sensory toys designed to maintain focus can be particularly beneficial for people with sensory issues related to ADHD or autism. These may include slime or putty, water beads, squishies, sensory mats, or water tables, and can be appropriate for people of all ages.

When choosing sensory toys, it is important to select items that are safe, durable, and suited to the child’s sensory preferences and therapeutic goals. Sensory toys should encourage exploration without overstimulation, providing calming or alerting effects as needed. Consulting with occupational therapists or other professionals can be helpful in identifying the best sensory tools tailored to an individual’s unique needs.

Overall, therapeutic toys—whether fidget tools, sensory toys, or physical activity equipment—play a supportive role in managing ADHD symptoms. They offer constructive outlets for energy, assist in developing motor and cognitive skills, and help reduce stress and anxiety. While no single toy will be a cure-all, incorporating these tools thoughtfully, alongside professional guidance and behavioral strategies, can enhance a child’s daily functioning and well-being.

Remember, every child with ADHD is different, so observing reactions and adapting accordingly is essential. By providing the right resources and support, parents and caregivers can foster an environment that promotes focus, self-regulation, and growth.