Fidget Tools for Focus: Empowering Learning Through Sensory Support

Funded Nov 7, 2024

I am incredibly grateful for your support in funding my DonorsChoose project! Thanks to your generosity, my freshmen students now have access to a variety of fidget toys, along with organized storage boxes to keep them readily available. These resources have made a noticeable difference in our classroom environment.

From the moment my students saw the fidget toys, their excitement was palpable. They eagerly explored the different textures and designs, and many immediately gravitated toward the ones that helped them stay engaged. Over the past few weeks, I've seen a positive impact—students who previously struggled with focus are now better able to stay on task during instruction and classwork. One particular moment stands out: during an independent reading activity, I noticed a student who typically fidgets with their pencil using a sensory ring instead. They were more engaged and participated in the discussion afterward with thoughtful insights—something they had struggled with before.

Of course, we are still learning how to use these tools appropriately. Some students get distracted by them, but we are working together to establish guidelines for responsible use. This process has sparked meaningful conversations about self-regulation and finding strategies that support individual learning needs.”

With gratitude,

Ms. Wallace Knight