Fidgets in the Classroom: Can They Improve Focus for Special Needs Students?
Do you know that, according to a recent survey it has been found out that around 55% of children with special needs can concentrate better with fidgeting tools?
Fidgets have become an increasingly popular tool in classrooms, particularly for special needs students who face challenges with focus and attention. These small, hand-held items are designed to provide sensory input that can help students maintain their focus during lessons. However, not all fidgets are suitable for every student.
While some, like fidget spinners, may be more distracting than helpful, others, such as stress balls or quiet fidget toys, support increased engagement and on-task behaviour.
Understanding how and why fidgets work can help educators use them effectively to enhance learning experiences for students who need extra support with concentration.
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Understanding Fidgets in the Classroom
Fidgets are small tools designed to keep hands busy and bodies moving but in a subtle way. These items can range from a squishy stress ball, a bendy Tangle Relax, or even a textured Squigglet Sensory Bracelet. The ordinary looks of a pencil fidget topper or an inside-out ball make them perfect for classroom use, as they are quiet and non-disruptive. Essentially, a fidget is anything that provides a tactile experience or movement opportunity, making it manageable for students to concentrate.
The Science Behind Fidgets and Focus
The concept of using fidgets is supported by studies showing that they can boost focus and attention by providing a quiet movement outlet. Think of it this way: by engaging the hands, you're allowing the brain to channel energy into concentration rather than excess movement. For students who thrive on movement, fidgets can be a game-changer, helping them maintain focus on tasks that demand mental effort. However, not all fidgets are equally effective; items requiring visual attention, like fidget spinners, may ironically distract more than they help.
Fidgets vs. Traditional Movement Breaks
Teachers often incorporate movement breaks to refresh student’s attention spans. Whether it's squeezing a stress ball or having a quick “wiggle session,” movement undeniably ignites attention and on-task behaviour. However, scheduling breaks can be tricky, especially when the school day is packed.
However, fidgets are an effective way to integrate movement without disrupting the flow of a lesson. They offer mini-movement breaks where complete physical breaks might not fit.
Benefits of Fidgets for Special Needs Students
Let’s get to some of the major benefits of using fidgets for your special needs students:
- Increasing Attention and On-task Behaviour
Say goodbye to distractions and hello to better attention in the classroom! The hands-on experience that fidgets provide offers students, especially those with ADHD, a non-intrusive way to stay focused. When fidgets are carefully selected to match the needs of the student, they can transform from toys into powerful educational tools.
- Stress Management and Emotional Regulation
Fidgets often serve a dual purpose, doubling as stress management tools. The repetitive motion of fidgeting can act as a soothing mechanism, helping students manage anxiety or agitation throughout the day. This ease can lead to enhanced emotional regulation, allowing students to face challenges with a clearer, calmer mindset.
- Tailoring Fidgets to Individual Needs
Each student is unique, and so should their fidgets. Tailoring these tools to fit individual preferences and needs can make a significant difference. Whether a student prefers the soft texture of a stress-less gel ball or the snappy feel of a Tangle Toy, the key is variety. By offering a selection of items, educators can better meet the diverse needs of their learners, ensuring each student has the right tools to tap into their full potential.
Selecting the Right Fidgets For Your Special Need Students
Choosing the most effective fidgets for the classroom is crucial to ensure they act as tools for learning rather than distractions.
- Characteristics of Effective Fidgets
To serve their purpose, fidgets should be quiet, discreet, and easy to manipulate. They need to offer sensory feedback, like interesting textures or the opportunity for movement, without drawing attention away from the task at hand. Some popular options include:
- Stress-less Gel Balls: Great for squeezing and calming.
- Tangle Toys: Offer smooth, flowing movement.
- Squigglet Bracelets: Provide a fun, sensory-friendly experience.
These types of fidgets allow for constant movement that helps students without disrupting others, making them ideal for classroom settings.
Avoiding Distractions: Fidget Spinners and Beyond
While fidget spinners became a viral sensation, they aren’t the best choice for enhancing classroom focus. Their spinning mechanism and visual appeal can draw attention away from learning tasks, especially in students with ADHD. Similarly, fidgets that incorporate games or puzzles might demand too much cognitive energy, causing more harm than good.
Examples of Classroom-Approved Fidgets: Pencil Fidget Toppers and Squeeze Stars are fantastic alternatives to entertain restless fingers. Additionally, non-traditional fidgets like Velcro strips stuck to a desk or therapy balls for seating provide subtle movement avenues without needing specialized gadgets.
Strategies To Implement Fidgets Tools Successfully in Classroom
To reap the benefits of fidgets, teachers should integrate them thoughtfully into classroom dynamics.
- Establishing Classroom Rules for Fidgets
Setting clear guidelines helps maintain a productive environment. Rules can include:
-Keep fidgets on desks or in hands at all times.
-Use fidgets solely to aid in concentration, not for play.
-Store fidgets away when not in use.
By involving students in creating these rules, educators can promote ownership and responsibility over their learning tools.
- Educating Students on Fidget Usage
Before allowing fidgets in the classroom, it's important to have a candid conversation. Explain that some students may find paying attention challenging, and these fidgets serve as helpful tools. Not every student will need a fidget, and that’s okay. Highlight how fidgets can positively impact learning when utilized correctly, and encourage students to use them thoughtfully and purposefully.
- Addressing Challenges and Adjustments
Introducing fidgets can bring initial excitement, which may temporarily distract. Allow students time to adjust, and if necessary, introduce fidgets gradually after regular activities to minimize disruptions.
Keep in mind the individual preferences of students; having a variety of textures and types could make a big difference in choosing the right fidget for each learner. Patience and observation are key to identifying what works best within your classroom environment.
Final Thoughts
Fidgets are more than just trendy gadgets or tools, they can be vital tools in enhancing focus and supporting learning for special needs students in the classroom. While not all fidgets are equally effective, those offering quiet, tactile engagement without distracting visual elements prove beneficial. Streamlining these resources requires understanding their purpose and implementing them correctly to maintain their educational value.
To integrate fidgets successfully, educators should emphasize their function as learning aids, establish clear rules, and discuss the importance of focus tools with students. By pursuing courses like a B.Ed. in Special Education online to choose fidgets thoughtfully and considering individual student needs, teachers can transform these small tools into powerful allies that facilitate concentration and engagement, ultimately creating a more inclusive and attentive classroom environment.
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