Let's Normalize Fidget Toys for Adults

I feel like I tell people this once a week: Let's normalize fidget toys for adults.

It is a really normal thing for people to feel some level of stress or anxiety in a day and our bodies then need to release that energy. And while it is wonderful to be able to go for a run or do some exercise or stretching, perhaps even taking some deep breaths… It's also really great to have other tools at your disposal which use your body to help move that stress out.

Not all fidget toys are bright and distracting.

Some of my clients struggle with self harm, other others struggle with regulating intense emotions such as anger or anxiety. Those things in particular are really benefited by having something to squeeze or fidget with in order to release that tension.

I had a great opportunity recently to try out lots of these fidget toys and see which ones I think are worth having around. So I thought I'd make a list of some of those that I recommend in case you might find it helpful to have them in your world.

One of my favorites is the hedgehog ball. Other than finding it very difficult to keep young kids from taking them all, these little plastic balls with spikes on them are so good for giving some release of tension for people who are struggling with anger or frustration. It's also excellent for people who struggle with self harm as it gives a good sensory input without needing to actually harm the body.

Another favorite of mine for something a bit softer is the NeeDoh cube. It's much stronger than the off-brands. And big enough that you can use both hands to play with it. It's like a really clean way of kneeding bread dough. Your fine as you play with it that it gets softer as it warms.

If you don't like the texture of NeeDoh but want something that you can squeeze, you might like the Mind Panda stress balls. These are actually made as a way of increasing hands strength. I quite like them because they're covered in fabric, which could be helpful for some people who don't like the texture of NeeDoh. They're also very well-made so you can squeeze them very hard and they will stay intact.

Another excellent one that many people already have are little pop squares. There are a lot out there that are very kid colored, but there are a few that are a bit more mature looking and might give you a little bit less of an attention from others around you. You could also try one of these sensory stones, keeping it in your pocket to fidget with when you need some help grounding.

For those looking for something a bit more sophisticated which they can maybe even use at an office or professional space. I'd recommend these two things.

One is a fidget ring. There are several available on Etsy that either have something to spin or play with. If you think about it, it's a pretty common thing to see someone playing with their rings. And it should be very acceptable to have a ring on your finger which you play with from time to time.

Another thing which some people find helpful is the Ono Roller. These come in different colors and have a really good weight to them. They're also very grown-up looking and are not the kid fidget toy you might otherwise see.

Are there are lots of things out there that people can use to relieve their stress having something available to you that's easy when times are just that little bit. Difficult is a good starting place. It's also really helpful to have when you're having a difficult conversation whether that's at work with a family member, or just a daily life.

Using the simple things to help ground yourself and allow your body to release the stress it's not going to fix all of the problems, but it is one simple tool to help make things just that little bit better. Why not allow yourself that?

All items listed on this page are my personal recommendations from experience in the therapy room. I'd never recommend something I don't use with myself or others. Some of the links are affiliate links and I will receive a stipend at no cost to you if you purchase by the link.