110 A Widget, a Useful Tool for Children Who Are Impulsive, Stressed, Autistic or have Difficulty Concentrating?

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     A widget, ever heard of them? I had never heard of one until my children were in their mid-twenties. Fidgets are self-regulation tools, and they would have been ideal for my children when they were young.

     When our daughter was in kindergarten – 3rd grade, she wiggled so much, struggling to concentrate, that she'd fall off her chair or burst into tears when she became frustrated trying to learn a new concept. Both Nicole and her brother were identified with Attention Deficit Disorder. Kyle would also feel so stressed when trying to learn  new concepts, he'd shut down or become angry and either make funny side comments, bang his head on the floor, or wrap a string around a kid's neck. Both struggled with memorization problems when they were young and were very anxious about taking tests. A fidget would have been ideal for them to use. 

     Fidgets could be squeeze balls, plastic key chains, tubing that can be maneuvered into various positions, etc.; Fidgets are self-regulation tools that promote movement and tactile input. They are ideal for kids who struggle with paying attention, or if they have sensory processing problems,  A.D.D., A.D.H.D, autism, or for anyone who feels anxious. 

    However, before giving your child a fidget, you need to set some home and

school guidelines. Then send a note to the teacher(s) informing them about the need for one and how it will help your child. I’m not so sure every teacher knows the purpose of a fidget, so they are misused. 

Some guidelines to review with the child when using a fidget:

1) A fidget is NOT a toy and is only another tool to help your child focus or relieve stress. Therefore they cannot play with it, give it to another child, or become obsessed with it.

2) The fidget is for your child and not to be passed around to share.

3) Help your child to understand that this is one way to help her improve her ability to focus on a task, be a better listener, and help calm her when she becomes frustrated.

4)  Ask your child when he might need a fidget so that it is only used when needed. For example, maybe math is his most challenging subject, so he would like to use it then.  Or he might also need it when he has to sit still in church.

5) The adult needs to ask the child what he thinks should happen if he is distracting others or interfering with others' ability to concentrate or when he is playing with his fidget.

6)  When the child is finished using the fidget, have her return it to the basket or drawer. If at school, the teacher and student decide where it should go.

    Try a few different types before sending a fidget to school, but don't buy ones with cutesy faces on them.  Remind your child that the fidget is to only be used to help her focus or help her become less stressed. It is NOT a toy.

     As a parent or teacher, I would print the rules up and tape them on the cupboard at their level after they sign that they understand the rules. (Or place the sheet of paper on their level near the basket of fidgets.)

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