Types Of Fidget Toys
Fidget toys can be just what you need to help calm the mind and improve focus. These intriguing tools, traced back to ancient Japan, have evolved into a variety of shapes and sizes suitable for both children and adults.
Our article will guide you through an array of fidget toy options, detailing their uses and benefits to help ease your selection process. Don’t miss out on finding your perfect fit!
Types of Fidget Toys
There are a wide variety of fidget toys available, including fidget spinners, mini spinners, fidget bands, marble fidgets, marble mazes, infinity cubes, rainbow fidget balls, and many more.
Fidget spinners
Fidget spinners burst onto the scene with significant popularity. These handheld toys consist of a ball bearing in the center of a multi-lobed flat structure made from metal or plastic, designed to spin along its axis with minimal effort.
Some even flaunt vibrant colors and shiny lights for added appeal! Invented and patented in 1997, these fidget toys provide sensory stimulation that can aid focus and offer an outlet for nervous energy.
Despite widespread belief, they are not scientifically proven to assist individuals with ADHD or autism specifically. However, many users find them helpful for anxiety relief and general concentration improvement.
A word of caution though – due to their spinning nature, they’re best used under supervision as some small parts could pose choking hazards for younger children.
Flying Orb Ball Toy
An best flying orb ball toy is a type of flying toy that is designed to hover in the air and be controlled by hand gestures. It is also known as a flying orb ball, hover ball, or boomerang spinner. The toy consists of a lightweight ball-shaped drone with hidden propellers that allow it to fly and spin in the air.
The orb ball toy is controlled by hand gestures, and users can put their hand underneath the ball and follow the spinning orb as long as they can.
Some orb ball toys also come with LED lights, making them more visually appealing. The toy is suitable for both kids and adults and is a fun and interactive device that can provide hours of entertainment.
Mini spinners
Mini spinners are a popular type of fidget toy that offer a compact and portable option for anxiety relief. They are smaller versions of the traditional fidget spinner, making them easy to carry in your pocket or bag.
Mini spinners have the same spinning motion as their larger counterparts, providing a tactile sensory experience that can help improve focus and alleviate stress. These handheld toys come in various designs and colors, allowing users to find one that suits their personal preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a discreet tool to calm nerves or simply enjoy the sensation of spinning, mini spinners are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a compact fidget toy.
Fidget bands
Fidget bands are a type of fidget toy that can be worn on the wrist or attached to a desk or chair. These stretchy bands provide a tactile and sensory experience, allowing users to engage their hands and fingers in movement.
They are particularly beneficial for individuals who have trouble sitting still or need extra stimulation to stay focused. Fidget bands help redirect restless energy and promote improved concentration by providing an outlet for fidgeting behaviors.
They are widely used in schools and offices as a discreet tool for stress relief and increased focus.
Marble fidgets
Marble fidgets are a popular type of fidget toy that provides both tactile and visual stimulation. These small, marble-sized balls are often made from colorful glass or plastic and can be rolled around in the palm of your hand or manipulated with your fingers.
They offer a calming effect and can help relieve stress and anxiety. Marble fidgets also promote dexterity and fine motor skills as you play with them. Their smooth texture and soothing movement make them a favorite choice for individuals of all ages looking for a simple yet effective way to keep their hands occupied and focused.
Marble mazes
Marble mazes are fun and interactive toys that challenge players to navigate a marble through a maze. Here are some things to know about marble mazes:
– Marble mazes come in a variety of forms, including wooden mazes, DIY mazes made from straws and glue, and building block mazes.
– Marble mazes can be purchased online or in stores, including at Target.
– Marble mazes can also be made at home using simple materials like straws, glue, and a box lid.
– Marble mazes are a great way to develop problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.
– Marble mazes can be enjoyed by both kids and adults.
Infinity cubes
Infinity cubes are a type of fidget toy that provide endless entertainment and sensory stimulation. These small handheld toys are made up of interconnected blocks that can be folded and unfolded in different patterns.
The repetitive motion of folding and unfolding the cube can help to relieve stress, promote focus, and improve concentration. Infinity cubes are also known for their tactile appeal, with smooth surfaces and satisfying clicking sounds as they move.
They are portable and can easily fit into your pocket or bag, making them convenient to use in various settings such as classrooms, offices, or during travel. Plus, the geometric design of the infinity cube adds an extra level of visual interest to engage your senses while providing relaxation and mindfulness benefits.
Rainbow fidget balls
Rainbow fidget balls are a type of fidget toy that come in the shape of a ball with 12 holes and 11 colorful balls inside that can be moved from one hole to another.
They are designed to be a fun and stress-relieving puzzle that can be played with by both kids and adults. Rainbow fidget balls are made of plastic and are available in different sizes and colors.
They are a popular choice for people who need to fidget or keep their hands busy, and can be used as a tool to help with anxiety, stress, and focus. Rainbow fidget balls are widely available for purchase online and in stores.
Fidget slugs
Fidget slugs are a type of fidget toy that are typically 3D printed and come in the shape of a slug. They have an amazing range of motion and can be twisted and moved around in different ways.
Fidget slugs are designed to be a fun and stress-relieving puzzle that can be played with by both kids and adults.
They are available in different colors and sizes. Fidget slugs are a popular choice for people who need to fidget or keep their hands busy, and can be used as a tool to help with anxiety, stress, and focus. Fidget slugs are widely available for purchase online and in stores.
Fidget cubes
Fidget cubes are a type of fidget toy that are designed to help relieve stress and anxiety. They are small handheld devices that have fidget tools on all sides, such as switches, gears, rolling balls, joysticks, spinning disks, worry stones, and buttons.
Fidget cubes are available in different colors and designs. They are a popular choice for people who need to fidget or keep their hands busy, and can be used as a tool to help with anxiety, stress, and focus.
Fidget dodecahedrons
Fidget dodecahedrons are a unique type of fidget toy that provides tactile stimulation and helps individuals with anxiety or restless hands. These toys are small, handheld objects shaped like a twelve-sided polyhedron.
The multiple flat faces allow for different textures and patterns, providing sensory feedback when touched or manipulated. Fidget dodecahedrons are often made from different materials such as plastic, metal, or wood, offering various sensations to suit individual preferences.
They can be rotated, twisted, squeezed, or simply held in the hand to promote relaxation and focus. These versatile fidget toys are portable and discreet, making them ideal for use in schools, offices, or other public settings where stress relief is needed.
Tangle toys
Tangle toys are a type of fidget toy that consist of interconnected loops, creating a twistable and bendable design. These toys provide an enjoyable tactile experience as users can twist, turn, and reshape the toy in various ways.
Tangle toys are portable and lightweight, making them easy to carry around for on-the-go sensory stimulation. They can help relieve stress and anxiety by providing a soothing sensation through their repetitive movement.
Tangle toys are also suitable for individuals with ADHD or those who have trouble focusing, as they offer a non-disruptive outlet for restless hands during activities or tasks.
Mini Hoberman spheres
Mini Hoberman spheres are expandable balls with a unique geometric shape that can be used for relaxation, stress relief, and play. They are designed by inventor Chuck Hoberman and come in a variety of colors.
The spheres can expand from 5.5 to 12 inches, and some versions even have luminous features or bounceback capabilities. Mini Hoberman spheres are suitable for all ages and can be used as toys or educational tools.
They are made of plastic and have smooth edges for safe handling. Mini Hoberman spheres are available for purchase on various online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble.
Fidget bracelets
Fidget bracelets are a type of fidget toy that can be worn on the wrist. They are designed to provide sensory stimulation and help individuals with anxiety or focus issues. These bracelets often feature different textures, such as beads or charms, that can be manipulated or rubbed for a calming effect.
Some fidget bracelets also include small gadgets, like spinning wheels or movable parts, to engage the hands and provide additional sensory input.
Monkey noodles
Monkey noodles are stretchy fidget toys that can be used for stress relief, sensory stimulation, and play. They are made of a stretchy material that can be pulled, twisted, and squeezed, and then bounce back to their original shape.
Monkey noodles are available in different colors and sizes, and they are sold in packs of multiple noodles. They are suitable for both kids and adults and can be used as calming toys or sensory fidget toys. Monkey noodles are made of BPA, phthalate, and latex-free materials, making them safe for handling.
They are available for purchase on various online retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Some retailers offer different versions of monkey noodles, such as stretchy string noodles. Monkey noodles have become popular as a stress-relieving toy and have received positive reviews from users.
Fidget snakes
Fidget snakes are a type of fidget toy that can be used for stress relief, sensory stimulation, and play. They come in different shapes and sizes, such as cubes, rulers, and snakes. Fidget snakes are made of different materials, such as plastic and beads, and they are available in different colors and designs. They are suitable for both kids and adults and can be used as calming toys or sensory fidget toys.
Fidget snakes are designed to be twisted, turned, and manipulated in different ways to provide a tactile and visual sensory experience. They can help improve focus, reduce anxiety, and increase hand strength and dexterity.
They are sold in packs of multiple snakes, and some retailers offer bulk packs of up to 24 snakes. Fidget snakes have received positive reviews from users and are a popular choice for those who need a fidget toy to help them focus and relax.
Stress relief balls
Stress relief balls are a popular type of fidget toy that can provide immediate calming effects. These handheld, squeezable balls are designed to help relieve tension and reduce stress levels.
By squeezing the ball in your hand, you can release built-up tension and redirect nervous energy. The repetitive motion can be soothing and promote relaxation. Stress relief balls come in different sizes, textures, and colors, allowing users to choose one that fits their preferences.
They can be used at home or workstation to provide quick moments of stress relief throughout the day.
Whatz it fidget
Whatz It Fidget is a type of fidget toy that consists of blocks connected to one another by elastic bands on the interior, allowing them to be shifted and manipulated. The blocks are brightly colored and chunky, making them easy to grip and manipulate.
Whatz It Fidget is suitable for all ages and can be used as a sensory fidget toy or a stress-relieving toy. It provides fine motor practice while also creating an interesting sensory experience.
Whatz It Fidget is available in different sizes, such as the mini version, and it is sold by various manufacturers and suppliers. It is made of quality wood with beautiful bold artwork.
Whatz It Fidget has received positive reviews from users and is a popular choice for those who need a fidget toy to help them focus and relax.
Original fidget retro
The Original Fidget Retro is a classic and timeless fidget toy that has been enjoyed by people of all ages. This handheld toy features a simple design with rotating gears that can be flipped, spun, and twisted.
It provides a satisfying tactile experience and helps to relieve stress and anxiety. The Original Fidget Retro is also known for its quiet operation, making it perfect for discreet fidgeting in classrooms or office settings.
With its retro charm and proven benefits, this fidget toy continues to be a popular choice for those seeking relaxation and improved focus.
Thinking putty
Thinking putty is a unique type of fidget toy that offers both tactile and visual stimulation. It is a stretchy, moldable substance that can be twisted, shaped, and stretched to help calm the mind and relieve stress.
Made from a silicone-based material, thinking putty comes in various colors and textures, including glow-in-the-dark and magnetic options. As you manipulate the putty with your hands, it provides a satisfying sensory experience that can improve focus and concentration.
Thinking putty is great for individuals of all ages who need a quiet activity to keep their hands busy while they work or relax.
Chain fidget toys
Chain fidget toys are a popular type of handheld toy that provide sensory stimulation and can help relieve anxiety and stress. These toys consist of interlocking chains that can be twisted, bent, or manipulated in various ways to keep the hands busy and engaged.
Chain fidget toys are often made from durable materials like metal or plastic, ensuring they can withstand frequent use. They are compact and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go use in classrooms, offices, or anywhere you may need a quick distraction.
Some chain fidget toys also come with additional features, such as textured surfaces or movable parts, to enhance the tactile experience.
Effacera pop fidget spinner toys
Effacera Pop Fidget Spinner Toys are a type of fidget toy that combines the features of a fidget spinner and a pop-it sensory toy. They are designed to provide tactile stimulation and promote stress and anxiety relief. Here are some key features of Effacera Pop Fidget Spinner Toys:
– The toys come in packs of 4 and are available in different tie-dye colors and designs.
– The toys feature soft, colorful buttons that can be pressed and popped, providing a satisfying sensory experience.
– The toys also feature a spinning bearing that allows them to spin for a long time without making a sound.
– Effacera Pop Fidget Spinner Toys are suitable for both kids and adults and can be used as calming toys or sensory fidget toys.
– They are available for purchase on various online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and DailySale.
Effacera Pop Fidget Spinner Toys have received positive reviews from users and are a popular choice for those who need a fidget toy to help them focus and relax. They are also suitable as party favors or gifts for kids and adults.
Shashibo shape-shifting box
Shashibo Shape-Shifting Box is a type of fidget toy that consists of magnetic pentagons or triangles that align and snap into place to form a cube or other shapes.
The toy is designed to provide tactile stimulation and promote stress and anxiety relief. Here are some key features of Shashibo Shape-Shifting Box:
– The toy comes in sets of 36 pentagons or triangles and is available in different colors and designs, such as Blue Planet and Spaced Out.
– The toy features rare earth magnets that allow the pentagons or triangles to align and snap into place to form a cube or other shapes.
– The toy is stackable, shakeable, snappable, and buildable, allowing users to build gravity-defying structures and then mess them up with their hands.
– Shashibo Shape-Shifting Box is suitable for both kids and adults and can be used as a calming toy or sensory fidget toy.
– It is available for purchase on various online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Fun In Motion Toys.
Shashibo Shape-Shifting Box has received positive reviews from users and is a popular choice for those who need a fidget toy to help them focus and relax. It is also suitable as a gift for kids and adults.
Magnetic fidget pen
A magnetic fidget pen is a unique pen that is made of high-quality metal with a smooth touch and strong magnetic performance. It is a fidget toy that can be rotated and transformed into a variety of creative and free combinations.
The pen has detachable magnetic pieces that can be manipulated to entertain during work or school, reduce stress, and relieve boredom.
The pen can be combined with magnetic balls to create different shapes and figures, such as a dog, stickman, sword, or chair. The magnetic fidget pen is a great little fidget toy that can help improve creativity and relieve stress.
Orbit ball toys
Orbit ball toys are a type of sensory toy that can be used for stress relief, improving finger flexibility, and strengthening brain exercise. They come in different colors and designs, and some of them have additional features such as flashing lights or elastic wristbands. Here are some examples of orbit ball toys:
– Spinning Puzzle Ball: This is a cube-shaped orbit ball toy that can be used to practice and improve finger flexibility, strengthen the brain, improve spatial orientation, and activate the brain exercise.
– Flashing Orbit Ball: This is a ball-shaped orbit toy that flashes for 12 seconds after every bounce, which is great for visual tracking and encourages gross motor skills.
– Light-Up Orbit Ball: This is a 2.4-inch ball-shaped orbit toy that features elastic wristbands and flashing lights. It comes in different colors such as red, blue, green, and purple, and is great for hand-eye coordination.
Orbit ball toys are suitable for children and adults, and can be used as a creative decompression toy, puzzle game, or stress relief tool.
Magnetic fidget rings
Magnetic fidget rings are a type of fidget toy that can be used for stress relief, anxiety, and improving finger dexterity. Here are some things to know about magnetic fidget rings:
– FinGears: FinGears is a brand of magnetic free-style rings that are different from any other fidget or stress relief gadget. They can be used to do tricks, spin, and stick to surfaces.
– Set of 3: Some magnetic fidget rings come in a set of three, and are great for building skill and coordination. They can be used for travel, work, or play.
– Pack of 18: Other magnetic fidget rings come in a pack of 18, and are great for endless hours of fun. They can be used for training, relieving stress, and improving finger dexterity.
– Available for purchase: Magnetic fidget rings are available for purchase online from various retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Fingears.
Magnetic fidget rings are suitable for children and adults, and can be used as a creative decompression toy, puzzle game, or stress relief tool. They are a great alternative to traditional fidget toys, and can be used to improve finger dexterity and coordination.
Star-shaped puzzle
A star-shaped puzzle toy is a type of puzzle that is shaped like a star and can be taken apart and put back together again. There are several different types of star puzzles available, including:
– The Genius Star: This is a board game that won the Toy of The Year Award. It has 165,888 possible puzzles and involves filling in colored shapes with blockers to complete a star.
– The Amazing Star Cube: This is a two-piece transforming geometric puzzle that can be shaped and rebuilt into 12-pointed stars, squares, rectangles, and more.
– The Eraser Puzzle Star: This is a 3D puzzle that comprises interlocking pieces and challenges the player’s problem-solving skills and dexterity.
– Wooden Star Puzzle: This is a six-piece wooden star-shaped puzzle that can be disassembled and reassembled.
Spinning wands
Spinning wands are a type of toy that provide a fun and captivating light show. These wands come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are often used as party favors or carnival prizes. Some popular types of spinning wands include:
– Light Spinner Wand: This wand features a multi-color LED light that spins in wild sensory patterns. It is suitable for children, autistic people, and can be used as a party favor or carnival prize.
– Light Up Orbiter Ball Toy Wand: This 7-inch wand provides a thrilling spinning light show that will delight kids of all ages. It features a flashing LED wand and is a fun gift or birthday party favor.
– LED Spinning Wands: These wands come in a variety of shapes and sizes, such as the Deluxe Light Up Spinning Lollipop Wand and the Pumpkin Treats Spin Wand. They are perfect for parties and can be used as a party favor or carnival prize.
– Flashing Light-Up Spinning LED Wand: This wand features bright LEDs that spin to create cool designs and patterns. It is great fun for a party or at the club and is suitable for kids and adults.
Pop spinners
Pop spinners are a type of fidget toy that combines the traditional fidget spinner with pop and tie-dyed printing. These toys come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can provide hours of entertainment and stress relief. Here are some examples of pop spinners:
– FIGROL 3 Pack Fidget Spinner: This set of three metal-looking fidget spinners features pop and tie-dyed printing and is suitable for kids and adults. The spinners can rotate for 1-2 minutes and can help relieve stress and anxiety.
– Octopus Pop Pop Fidget Spinner Toy: This face-changing mood showing fidget popper spinner is available at Walmart. It is a fun and entertaining toy that can provide hours of entertainment and stress relief.
– Aveloki Led Light Pop Fidget Spinner: This simple popper fidget spinner toy features LED lights and is a great sensory toy for kids. It can help reduce boredom and anxiety.
– GOHEYI Pop It Fidget Spinner Toys 4 Pack: This set of four simple dimple fidget toys is a combination of the simple fidget spinner and the popping fidget toy. It is a perfect stress reliever and can provide hours of entertainment.
– Push Pop Fidget Spinner Style: This sensory delight is a fidget spinner that features little bubbles that can be pushed and popped. It is a great stress reliever and can meet sensory needs.
– Target’s Range of Fidget Spinners and Sensory Games: Target offers a wide range of fidget spinners and other sensory games that can relieve stress and engage the senses. These toys come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike.
Benefits of Fidget Toys
Fidget toys offer several benefits, including improved concentration, stress relief, improved focus, promoting creativity, and enhancing social skills.
Improved concentration
Fidget toys have been found to improve concentration in both children and adults. The sensory engagement they provide can help individuals focus their attention and reduce distractions.
When using fidget toys, the tactile stimulation and repetitive motions can help calm the mind and promote a state of increased focus. This makes them particularly useful in environments where concentration is required, such as classrooms or workspaces.
Whether it’s spinning a fidget spinner or manipulating a fidget cube, these toys offer a hands-on approach to improving concentration that many find beneficial.
Stress relief
Fidget toys can be a great tool for stress relief. The sensory experience they provide can help individuals relax and reduce anxiety levels. Whether it’s squeezing a stress ball, manipulating a fidget cube, or playing with squishy toys, these handheld devices offer a tactile stimulation that promotes relaxation.
Focusing on the repetitive movements and textures of fidget toys can help calm the mind and redirect thoughts away from stressful situations. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, try using a fidget toy to find some much-needed stress relief.
Improved focus
Fidget toys are known for their ability to improve focus. When individuals use fidget toys, such as fidget cubes or spinners, it helps to redirect their restless energy and channel it into the toy.
This physical engagement allows them to concentrate better on the task at hand. Fidget toys provide a sensory experience that can help individuals with anxiety stay grounded and focused, allowing them to block out distractions and maintain attention for longer periods of time.
Whether used in classrooms or offices, fidget toys have been found to be effective aids in improving focus and increasing productivity.
Promotes creativity
Fidget toys not only offer stress relief and improved concentration, but they also promote creativity. By engaging with different types of fidget toys, individuals can stimulate their imagination and explore new ideas.
Whether it’s twisting a Tangle toy into different shapes or manipulating a fidget cube to create patterns, these handheld tools encourage creative thinking. The sensory experience provided by fidget toys can inspire innovative thoughts and allow for self-expression.
With a variety of textures, colors, and designs to choose from, fidget toys offer a playful outlet for artistic exploration and imaginative play.
Social skills
Fidget toys can also help improve social skills. By using these toys, individuals are more likely to engage with others in a positive and interactive way. For example, fidget cubes and spinners can be shared among friends or used as conversation starters.
This can lead to increased communication and connection between individuals, which is beneficial for building relationships and developing important social skills. Additionally, fidget toys can provide a sense of comfort and security in social situations, reducing anxiety and allowing people to feel more at ease when interacting with others.
How To Choose the Right Fidget Toy
Consider the age of the user
Age is an important factor to consider when choosing a fidget toy. Different age groups have different needs and preferences when it comes to sensory stimulation. For younger users, such as toddlers or preschoolers, softer and more tactile toys like squishy balls or textured silly stretchy strings may be more suitable.
Older children and teenagers might prefer fidget cubes or spinners that offer a variety of tactile experiences along with visual appeal. Adults can also benefit from fidget toys, with options like worry stones or hand-held magnetic balls providing stress relief and relaxation.
By considering the age of the user, you can ensure they have a fidget toy that is both safe and engaging for their specific needs.
Consider the type of activity
When choosing a fidget toy, it is important to consider the type of activity that you or the user will be engaging in. Different fidget toys are designed for different types of activities and sensory needs.
If you need something to occupy your hands during quiet tasks, options like fidget cubes or worry stones may be suitable. For those who prefer more movement-based activities, fidget spinners or kinetic sand could be the right choice.
By considering the type of activity you want to engage in, you can find a fidget toy that best meets your needs and helps promote focus and relaxation.
Consider the material
Fidget toys come in a variety of materials, each offering a unique sensory experience. Some common materials include plastic, metal, silicone, and fabric. Plastic fidget toys are lightweight and durable, making them perfect for on-the-go use.
Metal fidget toys provide a satisfying weight and cool touch that can be stimulating for some individuals. Silicone fidget toys offer softness and flexibility, allowing for different textures to be explored.
Fabric fidget toys provide a tactile experience with their softness and can often double as stress balls or squishy objects. Considering the material of a fidget toy is important as it can greatly impact the overall feel and effectiveness of the toy in providing anxiety relief or focus aid.
Consider the size
Fidget toys come in various sizes, so it’s important to consider the size when choosing the right one. Some fidget toys are small and compact, making them easy to carry around in your pocket or purse.
Others are larger and more substantial, providing a greater sensory experience. The size of the fidget toy should match your preference and comfort level. Whether you prefer something discreet and subtle or something that fills up your hand, there is a fidget toy out there for everyone.
So before purchasing a fidget toy, take into consideration its size to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Consider the cost
Fidget toys can vary in price, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing the right one for you. Some fidget toys, like basic stress balls or simple fidget spinners, are often more affordable and can be found at a lower cost.
On the other hand, there are also higher-end fidget toys that come with additional features or unique designs, which may be pricier. It’s essential to find a balance between quality and cost to ensure you’re getting a fidget toy that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Keep in mind that while some fidget toys may have a higher initial cost, they could potentially last longer and provide more durability compared to cheaper options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of fidget toys is vast and diverse, offering a wide range of options for anxiety relief and improved focus. From fidget spinners and cubes to stress balls and sensory toys, there is a fidget tool out there for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for something handheld, tactile, or sensory-driven, these types of fidget toys can provide the calming effect you need. So explore the different options available and find the perfect one that suits your needs!