body to move in a concentrated and rhythmic way can give the brain the focus needed to attend a task in a more meaningful way. Regulated. Calm. Focused. The abundant and deep benefits of fidgets definitely should urge society to reclassify them from mere toys to true tools.
Autism Support & Resources
Who Benefits from Fidgets
An individual does not require a diagnosis of any sort to enjoy a fidget’s benefits. Anyone looking to hone their focus or enjoy an exhale of relief from the world’s stressors can pick up a fidget and give it a whirl. Feel itchy with stress? Take a moment and try bouncing a leg, flexing fingers to a beat, chewing some sour-flavored gum, or squishing a stress ball. With all of that said, individuals with anxiety and neurodivergent individuals with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing disorders may benefit from adding fidgets to their arsenal of everyday tools used to navigate life. The benefits are the same. The main difference between neurotypical vs. neurodivergent use of fidgets would be that the level of need would affect the frequency of use. Re-Introducing Fidgets to the Classroom (and Boardroom, and Beyond!) Kids will be kids! And children playing with fidgets in an unintentional, unruly way may have teachers considering rules regarding fidgeting. However, when used intentionally and with clear expectations, they can be a helpful tool rather than a distraction. A classroom with students that are regulated, calm and focused is also a classroom that is set up for success and lots of learning! So whether a
Photo by Kien Pham
An official autism diagnosis may come with a pamphlet—but it doesn’t include a step-by- step handbook. That’s where this helpful collection of resources comes in. Inside, you’ll find a wide range of early intervention programs, therapies, nonprofits, support networks, and more, all designed to guide families toward the right support at the right time. While navigating differences can feel overwhelming, no two journeys are the same. Every family’s path is unique. Birmingham Parent wishes your family continued strength and success as you reach milestones and exceed goals—each step forward a meaningful leap ahead.
ABA–APPLIED BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS
Behavior One 500 Century Park S., Suite 100, Birmingham (205) 991-2584 behavioralone.com Connect ABA 1286 Oak Grove Rd., Suite 100, Birmingham (205) 201-1885 connect-aba.com
Birmingham 200 Vestavia Pkwy., Suite 2400, Vestavia Hills 350 Rex Lake Rd., Leeds (312) 965-2997 earlyautismservices.com Freedom Therapies 1051 Oak Mountain Dr., Pelham (205) 358-7311 freedomtherapies.net
In-Home (888) 329-4535 keyautismservices.com Milestones Behavior Group Inc. 1280 Columbiana Rd., Suite 101, Birmingham (205) 974-4519 milestonesaba.com
child is using a fidget at home or at school or whether an adult is embarking on a fidget finding journey of their own, it is clear: Fidgets are so much more than just a fad!
Thrive Behavioral Services, LLC 2685 Pelham Pkwy.,
Early Autism Services 151 Narrows Pkwy.,
Key Autism Services
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