I didn’t set out to become a collector of fidget toys. It just sort of… happened.
At first, it was just a single spinner—a gift from a well-meaning friend who said, “I thought this might help you focus.” I was skeptical at first, but within days, I was hooked. Now, years later, my collection has exploded into a chaotic, colorful treasure trove of sensory delights.
Why Fidget Toys Work for Me
- They Keep My Hands Busy:
- When my hands are occupied, my brain feels calmer. It’s like giving the hyperactive part of my mind a job to do so the rest of me can focus.
- They Help Me Regulate:
- Whether I’m anxious, overstimulated, or bored, fidget toys provide the sensory input I need to stay grounded.
- They’re Portable:
- Fidget toys are the perfect size to slip into my pocket or bag, making them a lifesaver during meetings, commutes, or crowded events.
A Peek Into My Collection
- Infinity Cube:
- It’s sleek, metallic, and endlessly satisfying to click and fold. Perfect for moments of quiet concentration.
- Tangle Toy:
- A twistable, brightly colored chain that feels like a mix between a puzzle and a stress ball.
- Pop It:
- The silicone bubbles are ridiculously fun to press, and the satisfying pop sound is like a mini celebration for my fingers.
- Weighted Fidget Ball:
- This one is heavier, which gives my hands a subtle workout while keeping my focus sharp.
- Textured Rings:
- Small metal rings with a ridged texture. They’re discreet and soothing, perfect for when I want to stim without drawing attention.
The Situations Where Fidget Toys Save Me
- During Meetings:
- Long meetings used to feel like torture. Now, with a fidget toy in hand, I can actually listen without my mind wandering.
- While Traveling:
- Planes, trains, and waiting in lines are much less stressful when I have something to fidget with.
- At Social Events:
- Holding a fidget toy helps me manage sensory overload and gives me something to focus on during small talk.
- At Home:
- Even when I’m relaxing, I like having a toy nearby. It’s like a safety net for my hands and my mind.
What People Get Wrong About Fidget Toys
- They’re Not Just for Kids:
- Yes, fidget toys are popular with children, but they’re just as helpful for adults like me who need sensory regulation.
- They’re Not a Distraction:
- For neurodivergent people, fidgeting actually helps us focus. It’s not about zoning out—it’s about staying present.
- They’re Not a Gimmick:
- These tools might look simple, but they’re incredibly effective for managing stress, anxiety, and sensory overload.
The Stigma Around Fidgeting
I’ve had people give me strange looks when I pull out a fidget toy in public, and I’ve overheard comments like, “Isn’t that for kids?” It’s frustrating, but I remind myself that these tools help me function.
I think of fidget toys the same way I think of glasses or hearing aids—they’re adaptive tools that make life a little easier.
A Moment of Fidget Joy
One of my favorite memories was at a family gathering, where I brought out my collection to show my younger cousins. Their eyes lit up as they tried each toy, and soon, everyone—adults included—was fidgeting away.
It was a rare moment of connection, where my “quirk” became something everyone could enjoy.
What I Wish People Knew
- Fidgeting Is Normal:
- Everyone fidgets in some way—tapping a pen, bouncing a knee, chewing gum. Fidget toys just make it more intentional and effective.
- They’re Lifesavers:
- These tiny tools have helped me manage anxiety, stay focused, and feel more in control in overwhelming situations.
- They’re for Everyone:
- Whether you’re neurodivergent or neurotypical, fidget toys can be a helpful addition to your self-care routine.
A Literary Tie-In
In The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger wrote, “Certain things they should stay the way they are.” That’s how I feel about my fidget toys—they don’t need to be fancy or complicated. They’re perfect in their simplicity, and they do exactly what they’re meant to do.
FAQ
Q: What’s your favorite fidget toy?
A: My infinity cube—it’s sleek, quiet, and endlessly satisfying to click and fold.
Q: How do you handle people judging your fidgeting?
A: I remind myself that their judgment doesn’t outweigh my need for regulation. If they ask, I explain why fidget toys are important to me.
Q: Can fidget toys be distracting to others?
A: Some can, like loud clickers, so I try to use quieter toys in public settings.
Final Thoughts
Fidget toys might seem small and insignificant, but for me, they’re a lifeline. They help me stay calm, focused, and grounded in a world that often feels overwhelming.
If you’ve never tried one, I encourage you to pick up a simple spinner or a textured ring. You might be surprised at how soothing it feels.
And if you need me, you’ll find me here—with a tangle toy in one hand, an infinity cube in the other, and a little more calm in my day.
