When fidget spinners became the hot new trend a few years ago, some teachers hated them. However, some teachers hated fidget spinners. Others accepted the trend, realizing that many children can concentrate on schoolwork with these toys. The key is finding quiet devices that won’t distract other students. This collection of fidgets is suitable for classroom use, quiet and still useful for students of all ages. Don’t be surprised if you wind up using one of these clever gadgets yourself!
Want to save money? You can save some money by making these DIY fidgets.
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1. Fidget Spinner
Here’s the original that started the trend: a fidget spinner! They’re still beloved, and the holographic rainbow finish on this one makes it among the coolest we’ve seen.
Buy it: MAGTIMES Rainbow Fidget Spinner
2. Mini Spinners
Want enough spinner fidget toys for the whole class? This bulk pack contains smaller spinners that are lightweight, but strong plastic.
Buy it: Super Z Outlet Mini Fidget Spinners, 24-Pack
3. Fidget Band
Some kids have more trouble keeping their feet still than their hands. That’s where fidget bands are useful. Attach them to chair or desk legs, and kids can kick and swing quietly while they work.
Buy it: Fidget Chair Bands, Set of 3/Amazon
4. Bubble Pop Fidgets
Bubble wrap was a fidget long before these toys became a must-have! These pop it toys can be used in classrooms. We love these toys that let anxious fingers “pop” bubbles over and over again.
Buy it: AYGXU Fidget Toys 8-Pack/Amazon
5. Marble Fidgets
The concept is so simple: it’s just a mesh tube with a marble inside. But there’s something very soothing about sliding it back and forth while you work.
Buy it: AUSTOR 20 Pieces Marble Fidget Toys/Amazon
6. Marble Maze
Here’s another version of a marble fidget toy. Guide the marble through the simple maze, back and forth. These patterns can be purchased online or you can search them online.
Buy it: SensiPalStore/Etsy
7. Infinity Cube
This is one of the highest-rated fidget items on Amazon. The infinity cube never stops moving, and you can turn it from any angle. A plastic version may be a better option if this robust model is not within your budget.
Buy it: JOEYANG Infinity Cube Fidget/Amazon
8. Rainbow Fidget Ball
This clever little fidget is a puzzle, too! The small, colorful balls should be pushed into the middle of the larger ball. Next, you must get them back in the correct spots.
Buy it: CuberSpeed Rainbow Magic Ball
9. Fidget Slug
Yup, you read that right: slugs! These cute little buggers have 3-D printed flexible bodies you can wriggle and adjust to relieve anxiety.
Buy it: CleverContraptions/Etsy
10. Fidget Cube
Fidget cubes are terrific because they give you lots of different options. This one has lots of 5-star reviews and comes with its own case.
Buy it: PILPOC theFube Fidget Cube/Amazon
11. Fidget Dodecahedron
If 6 sides are good, 12 must be twice as nice! This dodecahedron version will make fidgeting more fun!
Buy it: DoDoMagxanadu Fidget Dodecahedron/Amazon
12. Tangle Toys
These might not seem that intriguing at first, but they’re surprisingly fun to fidget with. Reviewers absolutely love them for kids and adults too.
Tangle Jr. Original Fidget Toys, Set of 3/Amazon
13. Mini Hoberman Spheres
Hoberman spheres are fun to fidget with, but they’re also great for mindful breathing exercises. They’re an excellent addition to your classroom calm-down kit or corner.
Buy it: 4E’s Novelty Expandable Breathing Ball Spheres,4-Pack/Amazon
14. Fidget Bracelet
This pretty bracelet doubles as a fidget device. It’s a smart choice for older kids and adults who feel like they’re past the “toy” stage.
Buy it: DiPrana/Etsy
15. Monkey Noodles
Pull, stretch, wrap, twirl … whatever helps you concentrate! These toys have thousands and thousands of 5-star reviews.
Buy it: Monkey Noodle 5-Pack/Amazon
16. Stretchy Fidget Men
Feeling stressed? Stretchy Men Feel stressed? It’s only pennies per piece and you get enough to run a whole class.
Buy it: Stretchy Happy Man Fidget Toys/Amazon
17. Fidget Snake
This style of toy has been around for years, and they’re endlessly fun to play with. Twist them into different shapes and see what you can make!
Learn more: Ganowo Sensory Fidget Snakes, Set of 3
18. Squish Panel
Water beads have a fun squishy texture, but they can make a real mess. These beads are safe to take with you wherever you go, thanks to their sealed bag.
Buy it: SensiPalStore/Etsy
19. Kneadable Erasers
Kneadable erasers were originally intended for artists to allow them to create useful shapes to erase small lines. They’ve become popular fidget toys, too. They are food-scented which is a plus, but there are also non-scented options.
Buy it: Raymond Geddes Mash Ups Scented Kneaded Erasers, Pack of 24
20. Stress Relief Balls
Work off your fidgets by squeezing these squishy emoji balls! This assortment is lots of fun and comes with enough for your whole class.
Buy it: LovesTown Face Stress Balls, Set of 24
21. Roller Chain
Spin the disks or move the sections to make different shapes. These gadgets are small enough that they can fit in a pocket.
Buy it: Flippy Roller Chains Fidget Toys, 2-Pack/Amazon
22. What’Zit Fidget
(*25*)
There’s something irresistible about this colorful wooden toy, according to the Amazon reviews. Kids and adults both love twisting and turning it into lots of interesting shapes.
Buy it: What’Zit Fidget Toy/Amazon
23. Original Fidget Retro
Full of buttons and rollers, this cute little device is designed to look like a retro game controller. This device is not recommended for quiet classrooms due to the clicking sound that some buttons make.
Buy it: WTYCD The Original Fidget Retro/Amazon
24. Thinking Putty
Pull, stretch, mold, and watch the mesmerizing colors change under the light. Thinking putty is kind of like Silly Putty; it never dries out and lasts pretty much forever.
Buy it: Crazy Aaron’s Super Illusions Thinking Putty, 4 Mini Tins/Amazon
25. Chain Fidget Toy
For older kids who might prefer a more discreet toy, this little device is less than 2 inches long. It twists, turns, and rolls, and slides into your pocket when you’re not using it.
Buy it: Vanblue Chain Fidget Toys, 5-Pack
Do you use fidget devices in your classroom? You can share your favorite fidget devices on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE Facebook group.
You can also find great ideas for calm-down supplies for classrooms.
FAQ:
Q1. What are some popular types of fidget toys?
A1. Some popular types of fidget toys include spinners, cubes, balls, and tangles.
Q2. What is a fidget spinner?
A2. A fidget spinner is a small, handheld device with a center bearing allowing it to spin around. It is used as a stress-relieving toy.
Q3. What is a fidget cube?
A3. A fidget cube is a small cube-shaped device with different tactile features, such as buttons, switches, and dials, that can be manipulated to relieve stress and anxiety.
Q4. What is a stress ball?
A4. A stress ball is a small, squeezable ball that can relieve stress and tension by providing a physical outlet for nervous energy.
