Fidgeting is when a person makes small movements, often without realizing it. It’s especially common in kids with ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Fidgeting can involve playing with objects, tapping feet, or squirming in a seat.
Fidgeting is when a person makes small movements, often without realizing it. It’s especially common in kids with ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Fidgeting can involve playing with objects, tapping feet, or squirming in a seat.
Is fidgeting good or bad?
It depends on the individual and the context. For some people, fidgeting can be helpful in regulating emotions and improving focus. However, excessive fidgeting can be disruptive in certain situations, such as in a quiet library or during a test.
Can fidgeting be a problem?
For some people, excessive fidgeting can be a problem, especially in quiet or public places. However, for others, fidgeting is simply a habit and doesn’t cause any issues.
What are some common fidget toys and tools?
Common fidget toys and tools include stress balls, spinning tops, fidget cubes, squishy toys, putty, and worry stones. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, and can be used to satisfy the urge to fidget and improve focus.
Fidgeting refers to making small, repetitive, and often unconscious movements. It is a common behavior, particularly in children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research suggests that fidgeting may help some individuals with these conditions to focus, self-regulate, and manage stress or anxiety.
Fidgeting can be associated with various conditions, indicating underlying factors that contribute to this behavior. Here are some common conditions associated with fidgeting:
| Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) | Fidgeting is often seen in individuals with ADHD as it helps them channel excess energy and maintain focus. |
| Anxiety | Fidgeting can be a coping mechanism for individuals experiencing anxiety, providing a physical outlet for nervousness. |
| Sensory processing disorder (SPD) | People with SPD may fidget to regulate their sensory input and seek sensory stimulation or avoid overload. |
| Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) | Fidgeting is common among individuals with ASD as it helps them self-regulate and manage sensory input. |
| Restlessness | Restlessness, caused by factors like boredom or excess energy, can lead to fidgeting as a means of seeking stimulation. |
Recognizing these associations can assist parents in identifying the underlying causes and implementing appropriate strategies to support their children.
This post was originally published on Feb. 7, 2023. It was updated on May 30, 2024.
