The condition causes symptoms related to hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
Fidget toys for ADHD are one tool that are often marketed as a way of improving attention.
Fidget toys are small, handheld objects that can be manipulated with the hands.
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What Is ADHD?
ADHD is one of the most common developmental conditions in childhood.
Children with the condition often have a difficult time paying attention and struggle with managing their behavior.
Whilesymptoms differ somewhat for adults, it is common for the disorder to persist into adulthood.
Other common symptoms of ADHD include:
What Are Fidget Toys?
The goal of such toys is to provide a purposeless, movement-based activity.
Types of Fidget Toys
There are a wide variety of fidget toys for ADHD.
Some of the most commonly used ones include:
How Do Fidget Toys Help People With ADHD?
But is there any research to back up their purported benefits?
Recent research indicates that these toys may not be as beneficial as their marketing suggests.
Its even more of a leap to suggest that any improvements might impact performance in a classroom setting.
Why might fidgeting improve attention?
According to researchers, physical activityincluding small hand movementsreleasesdopamineand norepinephrine.
This can lead to improved focus and better attention.
However, playing with a fidget spinner decreased attention at all experiment phases.
And this relatively small behavioral benefit is outweighed by the devices' significant detrimental effects on attention.
Potential Risks
Fidget toys may have risks that should be considered.
The toys may be best utilized as entertainment in non-classroom prefs, such as long car rides.
Such tools may have other benefits not necessarily related to attention.
Such options allow you or your child to manipulate them without becoming distracted or intruding on others.
Some fidget toys may have small parts that pose a choking hazard for young children.
Noise level is another concern since some gadgets may make more noise than others.
Choose a safe and appropriate toy for your needs, and be sure to purchase from a reputable retailer.
Fidget toys are not an alternative forevidence-based treatments for ADHD.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms and diagnosis of ADHD.
The Washington Post.Schools are banning fidget spinners, calling them nuisances and even dangerous.
