Why Fidget Toys are More Than a Trend

When most people hear the term "fidget toy", they probably think of the fidget spinner trend of 2017. Looking back, those toys are seen as "annoying", "distracting", and a symbol of disrespectful teenagers. 

But what are fidget toys, actually? 

They weren't intended to be a trend, or a mass-produced craze. They started as a tool for neurodivergent - primarily autistic - people to help them focus. For neurotypical people, fidgeting and fiddling can be a distraction, but for neurodiverse folks, they are grounding. 

Many autistic people engage in a behaviour called "stimming". Also called "self-stimulating behaviours", stimming is a repetitive movement that many people find soothing. Stims can include tapping, humming, bouncing feet, pulling hair, and more. 

The act of stimming can regulate emotions. It acts as a way to get sensory input, allowing you to feel connected to your body. Think of doodling in your notebook during a lecture - it stops your mind from wondering and gives your other senses (that you aren't using to pay attention) something to do. 

Stimming can be particularly useful when dealing with overstimulation  or sensory overload. If there is a storm of noises and a crowd of people around you, making repetitive movements like tapping on your wrist can bring you back to reality. 

So why are fidget toys important? 

While it's true that stimming can be any sort of repetition, if someone doesn't have a designated object for stimming, they can turn to self-destructive methods (like pulling out hair and biting nails). Fidget toys give people a healthy, productive way to stim without causing harm. 

Fidget toys aren't just for kids. 

Many adults find it helpful to carry something in their pockets they can easily stim with - like a stress ball or a ring. 

My frog fidget toys are great for kids AND adults - because everyone can enjoy a cute pocket-sized frog! Their size also means that they are discrete - you can pop the popping frog inside your pocket if you don't want anyone to see. 

No one should be made to feel ashamed of the things that bring them comfort - but unfortunately we live in a world where any "abnormal" behaviour is looked down upon.

You need to do what's best for you - if using fidget toys help you to regulate, or keeps you grounded, then you should do it! Other people don't have to live in your body. Only you do, so why not make it a little easier on yourself?