What is it?
Visual fidgets are sensory tools that provide calming visual stimulation to support focus and regulation. These fidgets often feature repetitive or soothing movement, light, or color patterns—such as spinning tops, liquid motion timers, or light-up toys. In educational settings, they help students manage anxiety, stress, or sensory overload by offering a quiet, engaging visual experience that supports emotional regulation and sustained attention.
How to use it?
Introduce visual fidgets as tools to support focus and self-regulation, and provide a selection for students to explore—such as timers, spinners, or small light displays. Use them during activities that require concentration or calm, like independent work or transitions. Encourage students to use visual fidgets quietly and respectfully, and establish clear guidelines to prevent distractions and ensure the tools are used appropriately within the learning environment.
Why use it?
Visual fidgets offer a non-disruptive way for students to regulate their sensory needs and maintain attention, especially those with anxiety, autism, or sensory processing differences. They promote a sense of calm and can help students re-center during times of overload or stress. By incorporating visual fidgets into the inclusive classroom, educators support diverse sensory preferences and foster an environment where all students can engage and learn more comfortably.
