“A good sensory toy should have some weight or texture to it that the user can focus on," says Elizabeth Hankin, MA., L.M.F.T., licensed marriage and family therapy therapist at Whole Health Psychological Center. “Movement of the toy causes instant grounding effects by taking the user out of their head and refocuses them back to the present moment,” she adds. Anxiety, nervous energy, boredom, and fidgeting can be a thief of concentration and productivity in the workday, leading to unwanted habits such as leg shaking, nail-biting, skin picking, and checking our phones too often. Fortunately, fidget toys—designed to decrease feelings of boredom while increasing focus—can be used to avoid these potentially harmful habits. Here are the best fidget toys on the market, according to a licensed mental health counselor. Great for kids and adults alike, it’s crafted with durable ABS plastic blocks and stainless steel rivets for durability, no matter how often it’s used. The snap-and-click mechanisms in this toy decrease restlessness and provide an outlet for boredom or pent-up energy. The bright colors and the ability to mix and match the pieces make them fun for anyone looking for a budget-friendly solution to nervous habits. Because the pieces are plastic, they can be easily cleaned with soap and water—great for parents and office workers trying to decrease the spread of germs. While spinning, it creates a neat rainbow effect. The brand also offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, which is ideal if you’re looking for a new toy without a commitment. Made from aerospace-grade aluminum, an anodized exterior, and a CDC-machined helix design, this is a top-quality product. The helix design creates a mesmerizing pattern and offers a long spin time to help maintain good focus. The leather bottom also prevents it from scratching the surface of your desk. It also fits easily in your hand or pocket and is an inexpensive option compared to other fidget gadgets marketed toward adults. Perfectly discreet, it looks like regular jewelry, but it can be worn on any occasion where anxiety might be present. It’s accompanied by rave reviews and it’s available in ring sizes 5 to 14. Some children with sensory difficulties may find the smooth texture of this putty more soothing than other fidget toys with harder finishes. The putty has the appearance of liquid glass and comes with its own storage tin for easy transport. Place the strips on a laptop, phone, notebook, and more for easy access in tense environments. And since the back is covered in residue-free adhesive, they can be removed and easily transferred to a new surface. Made from silicone, you can “pop” the bubbles on one side, turn it over and continue for endless fidgeting. Because it’s made from durable silicone, you can wash it as many times as you need to and not worry about anxious hands breaking the toy. The rotation time is longer than most, and the bearings are quiet, making it a good option for homework or tutoring sessions. This spinner is a good option for those who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism.
Soothing Colors
Soothing colors can help calm the mind, focus the brain, and redirect thoughts from stressful preoccupations to more calming topics. Attractive colors will also encourage people to choose a fidget toy to take their frustrations out on rather than a more breakable object. A toy that changes colors or lights up can also be helpful for some people to further decrease episodes of boredom.
Sounds
Why Trust Verywell Mind?
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Mary K. Tatum, MS, LMHC has worked with both adults and children struggling with anxiety and ADHD for almost 15 years. She understands the importance of finding routines and methods that work for each person. Mary has seen fidget toys be very beneficial in helping increase focus, creativity, and for grounding work when anxious emotions become intense.
