In a world where focus and relaxation often feel like distant luxuries, fidget toys have emerged as powerful tools for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
I have just received my late diagnosis at the ripe age of 38 and I have autistic severe level 2 with ADHD, so sensory and fidget toys have been my best friends forever.
Even before being diagnosed I always played repeatedly with items to relax and focus, especially during school.
Unfortunately back then, autism was seen as just a “boys’ matter”, and I am one of the thousands of girls who have never been diagnosed correctly until now.
These devices offer a tactile outlet for restless hands, helping to channel excess energy and promote concentration.
They help a lot with picking skin, hair, and other kinds of stimming.
While initially popular among children (remember the boom of the popper toys), fidget toys have gained traction among adults seeking relief from the constant bombardment of stimuli in everyday life.
I have a full set of fidget toys, some around in my bags, some on my desk to help me focus on work, and I must admit that teaming them up with my earbuds is a life-saver when the world is just “too much.
For those navigating the vast array of options on Amazon.com, selecting the right fidget toy can be daunting. To simplify your search, we’ve curated a list of the best fidget toys tailored specifically for adults with ASD and ADHD.
- Spinny-Winny Fidget Spinners: Despite causing more debates than pineapple on pizza, fidget spinners are the cool cats’ go-to gadget. These pocket pals sport a nifty central bearing that spins with a flick of the finger, giving a groovy sensory thrill. Opt for spinners made of tough stuff like metal or top-notch plastic for everlasting fun.
- Finger Bling Sensory Rings: Picture this: bling for your fingers that also satisfies your fidgeting cravings. These flexible bands come with all sorts of textures for a tactile party, making them ideal for folks who like to fidget on the down low. Take your pick from a rainbow of designs and colors to match your vibe.
- Twisty Whisty Tangle Fidget Toys: Can’t decide how to fidget today? Tangle toys to the rescue! These bad boys consist of linked segments that can be twisted, bent, and molded into endless shapes. It’s a fidget fiesta for everyone, with tactile and visual thrills galore. Go for a Tangle toy with groovy textures or eye-popping colors to amp up the sensory shindig.
- Crazy Cube Fidget Fun: Need a fidget buddy for your pocket? Enter the fidget cube! Packed with different activities on each side, including buttons, switches, dials, and all sorts of textures, this little guy has got all your sensory needs covered. It’s like a stress toy Swiss Army knife – compact, versatile, and oh-so-fun.
- Squishy Squeeze Balls: Squeeze, squish, repeat – that’s the mantra of squeeze balls for those who dig the simple pleasures. These squishy balls are perfect for mellowing out and unwinding. Look for ones with varying squishiness levels to dial in your fidget game just the way you like it.
- Zen Inducing Stress Relief Putty: Get ready to mold away your woes with stress relief putty, the cousin of traditional modeling clay. Knead, stretch, and shape it – this stuff’s ready to handle your pent-up energy. And hey, some putties even come with chill scents like lavender or chamomile for those extra tranquil vibes. Keep a pot on your desk or stash it in your pocket for fidget emergencies on the move.
- And hey, we’ve also got some Squishies – mini animals, fruits, or dinosaurs straight out of the adorable world of Kawaii. They’re soft, petite, and ready to tag along anywhere.
- Nom-O-Rama Chewable Fidget Necklaces: Got a thing for chewing and need to keep it hush-hush? Check out these chewable fidget necklaces, the unsung heroes of oral stimulation. Sporting textured pendants made of silicone, these necklaces offer a discreet way to satisfy your oral urges while dialing in your focus and self-regulation. Take your pick from a variety of shapes and colors to match your vibe.
When shopping for fidget toys on Amazon.com, it’s essential to consider the specific sensory needs and preferences of the individual. Additionally, be sure to read product reviews and descriptions to ensure that you’re investing in high-quality, durable fidget toys that will provide long-lasting benefits.
In conclusion, fidget toys offer a valuable outlet for individuals with Autism and ADHD to channel excess energy, reduce stress, and improve focus. By exploring the diverse range of options available on Amazon.com, adults can find the perfect fidget toy to enhance their daily lives and promote overall well-being. Whether you prefer spinning, squeezing, or stretching, there’s a fidget toy out there to meet your unique needs.