18 DIY Fidget Tools for Kids
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Fidgets are a hot topic right now with the recent fidget spinner craze. Earlier this week we discussed if fidgets really do work, so today I wanted to share some DIY fidget tools for kids.
A lady at church this past weekend was talking to me about the fidget spinners. Her grand-daughter was looking for some and all the stores were sold out. Even though they are a hot “toy” right now, there are many other types of fidgets that will do the job.
If you'd rather not spend the money on a fidget tool or toy that could possibly break, there are lots of great DIY fidget tools solutions.
It's important to remember that fidget toys really are tools, not toys. They are typically used for children who have trouble focusing on a primary task and fidgeting helps them to focus. A fidget tool or toy may distract your child if it keeps them from focusing on the primary task.
Work together with your child to set up rules for when they can be used and how they are to be treated. You may need to set up a fidget break if using a fidget during a task becomes too distracting.
DIY Fidget Tools for Kids
There are many different types of fidget tools out there, so I am going to categorize these a little bit by what types of fidgets they fall under.
DIY Fidget and Stress Ball Tutorials
This is the tool I often think of first when I think of a fidget tool. You may see them referred to as “stress balls”, but they are a basic fidget tool as well. Fidget tools have been shown to be beneficial for those with anxiety, so here are a few ideas on how to make them yourself.
How To Make Sensory Balls – The Chaos And The Clutter
Lego Calming Stress Balls – Lemon Lime Adventures
Sensory Rainbow Balloon Balls – Pint Sized Treasures
Simple Texture Balloon Balls – Little Bins for Little Hands
Pokemon Stress Balls – And Next Comes L
DIY Fidget Spinners
These little things have taken the toy world by storm in the last few months. But there are some great DIY options that you can create with your kids at home.
Totally Rad DIY Fidget Spinners – Lemon Lime Adventures
Lego Fidget Spinner – Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
How to Make a Fidget Spinner – Red Ted Art
DIY Fidget Spinner Template – Red Ted Art
DIY Chewelry Fidget Tools
Many kids also need to be able to chew on something while they fidget. These oral sensory chews can be very helpful if you have a child who needs to chew as well as fidget.
DIY Chewelry Ideas for Kids – And Next Comes L
DIY Chewelry Necklace – The Jenny Evolution
DIY Chewelry Zipper Pull – And Next Comes L
DIY Chewable Teething Necklace for Older Kids – Lemon Lime Adventures
DIY Fun Fidget Tools
These last few ideas did not really fit in any of the other categories, but I wanted to be sure to include them.
DIY Pencil Topper Fidget – The OT Toolbox
No-Sew Mermaid Fidget Bag – Lemon Lime Adventures
Giant Guitar Fidget Ring – Laly Mom
Desk Fidget Tool – The OT Toolbox
Weighted Fidget Tool – The OT Toolbox
I'd love to hear if you try any of these DIY fidget tools in your home, classroom, or therapy session. Let me know in the comments below.
For more fidget and sensory fun, check out my sensory play fun Pinterest board.
Heather Greutman, COTA
Heather Greutman is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with experience in school-based OT services for preschool through high school. She uses her background to share child development tips, tools, and strategies for parents, educators, and therapists. She is the author of many ebooks including The Basics of Fine Motor Skills, and Basics of Pre-Writing Skills, and co-author of Sensory Processing Explained: A Handbook for Parents and Educators.
Hi I see the new spinner as very detrimental. They are really taking away from the purpose of concentration. Kids are so busy spinning and seeing how fast it is totally distracting them.I think it is really bad idea
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I think using it for fidgeting for concentration, I definitely agree. But as a fun toy during a break time, I see it working fine in that type of situation.
Nice info. I will try Lemon Lime Adventures. I think my kids will love. Thanks for great info
Thank you for sharing some DIY fidgit options, I think some of these are great ideas. We will have to try a few.