Whether it’s fidget spinners or stress balls, sensory toys are a great way to relieve stress. The science behind these toys is pretty simple: when you squeeze a stress ball or twirl a spinner in your hand, the pressure on your skin causes your body to release endorphins that make you feel good.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| The use of sensory toys can be helpful in managing stress and anxiety. |
| There are many different types of sensory toys available for children and adults. |
| Sensory toys can be particularly beneficial for individuals with special needs. |
| Fidget toys are a type of sensory toy that can help with focus and attention. |
| Fidget toys can be helpful for individuals of all ages who experience stress, anxiety, or difficulty focusing. |
1: Squeezing a Stress Ball
A stress ball is a rubber or latex ball that you squeeze, roll and toss. Stress balls are used for the purpose of comfort and stress relief.
Stress balls are also commonly used as fidget toys to help improve concentration, focus and reduce anxiety in children with ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorders.
When it comes to managing anxiety and stress in children, sensory toys can be a valuable tool. Our article on how sensory toys can help children manage anxiety and stress provides insights into the benefits of sensory play and how it can help children cope with anxiety and stress.”
2: Fidgeting with a Sensory Toy
Fidgeting is a great way to relieve stress. The act of fidgeting can be done with many sensory toys, but our two favorites are the spinner and the squish ball.
Sensory toys, like the spinner, can be used as a sensory stimulating tool that increases focus and attention. It also helps people manage their emotions by relieving stress or anxiety through repetitive movements that require little effort or thinking (1).
This is one of the main reasons why they are so popular today in classrooms because they help students stay focused during long lectures or presentations!
Fidget spinners have been around for quite some time actually – they were first invented back in 1993 by Catherine Hettinger after she saw her son struggling to concentrate on his schoolwork due to his ADHD diagnosis (3).
She initially wanted him to play with something while he was studying so she made one out of paperclips but it wasn’t until later when she presented them at an inventor’s convention that things really took off !
Once word got out about how effective these little gadgets were at reducing stress levels people began using them more often especially when doing things like writing reports etcetera which can get boring after awhile without something else being done simultaneously 🙂
So now we know how these devices work but why should we care? Because most people don’t realize how much stress affects us every day without even knowing it – from our relationships with friends/family members down even further than those interactions where we try talking ourselves into believing everything will work out okay despite evidence otherwise…
Sensory toys are not just for kids – adults can benefit from them too! Our article on the power of sensory toys for stress relief in adults explores how sensory toys can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation in adults.
Benefits of Fidget Toys
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Stress reduction | Fidget toys can provide a physical outlet for stress and anxiety, helping individuals better manage their emotions. |
| Increased focus | By providing a distraction that is not disruptive to others, fidget toys can help individuals increase their focus and attention. |
| Improved fine motor skills | Regular use of fidget toys can help improve fine motor skills, especially for children. |
| Relaxation | Fidget toys can help promote relaxation and provide a sense of comfort, which can be especially helpful for individuals with anxiety. |
| Sensory input | Fidget toys can provide different types of sensory input, depending on the type of toy, which can be helpful for individuals with sensory processing disorders. |
3: Twirling a Fidget Spinner
Fidget spinners may seem like a fad, but they’ve been proven to be an effective way to relieve stress.
They help you focus and concentrate better by helping you release tension in your body. Experts have also found that fidget spinners are good for people with ADHD, anxiety, and autism because they can be used as tools to manage symptoms of those conditions.
In this chapter we’ll discuss why spinning a Fidget Spinner is such a popular stress reliever; how it works; what the science says about its effects on the brain; and whether there’s any downside to using one (spoiler: none).
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Sensory Toys
| Type of Sensory Toy | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fidget Spinners | Can help with focus and attention | Can be distracting to others |
| Squeeze Toys | Can provide stress relief | May not be suitable for all individuals |
| Putty | Can help with fine motor skills | Can be messy |
| Sensory Balls | Can provide tactile stimulation | Can be difficult to clean |
| Weighted Blankets | Can promote relaxation and calmness | May not be suitable for everyone |
4: Rolling a Pencil Between Your Fingers
Rolling a pencil between your fingers is an easy way to relieve stress. It’s also beneficial because it can be done just about anywhere, and you don’t need much time to get the full effect.
To start, find a pencil that feels comfortable in your hands one that doesn’t slip out of your grasp or hurt your fingers as you roll it back and forth. Once you have one picked out, hold the pencil between both hands at either end and begin rolling it slowly back and forth while applying pressure with your thumbs on either side of its body.
The idea is to keep both sides of the pencil moving as smoothly as possible throughout this process until they touch each other at their ends before starting again from scratch.
You may want to try different speeds for this exercise until finding one that feels right for you; just remember not to let go of the pen altogether!
Once you’ve finished rolling up all those anxieties away (or maybe even broken into a sweat), put down whatever item was helping calm down feelings like anger or frustration because now we’re going onto another activity:
5: Wearing Pressure Bracelets
Wearing pressure bracelets is another way to help reduce stress. Pressure is a form of energy, and it’s been shown that wearing a simple bracelet can reduce anxiety levels by up to 65%.
It might seem odd, but these bracelets work by massaging the skin with their gentle movement. To make your own, simply cut an elastic band into several thin strips using scissors or a rotary cutter. Add some stones or other decorative elements if you like!
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to take time to relax and de-stress. Our article on 15 sensory toys that will help you relax and de-stress provides a variety of sensory toy options for adults and children alike, to help reduce stress and promote relaxation
6: Getting One of Those Squishy Stress Toys for Adults
If you are looking for a stress management tool that’s easy to use and can be used anywhere, a good squishy stress ball is the way to go.
These balls are not just for kids anymore! They come in all shapes and sizes, from plain balls of rubber to more sophisticated designs with pictures on them (like the classic smiley face). The best part about using these types of toys is that they’re very portable—you can take them anywhere with you, including work or school.
And if you’re away from your desk? No problem! Just pull out your little friend and squeeze away until everything else melts away.
As far as where to get one…well, there are plenty of options online if shopping in-store isn’t your thing.
Amazon has quite a few different options at various price points depending on what kind of sensory experience you’re looking for; some offer multiple colors while others have more complex textures inside like crushed walnuts or sandpaper (if this sounds appealing but also kind of scary at the same time).
One example worth noting here is this one from Vat19: it’s made out of silicone rubber instead which means no latex allergies will arise when playing around with it–and since it features real human DNA inside too (we promise!), we think this could be worth checking out before making up mind about which model might suit best.”
Different types of Fidget Toys and Their Benefits
| Type of Fidget Toy | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Fidget Spinners | Can help with focus and attention |
| Fidget Cubes | Provide a variety of tactile experiences |
| Worry Stones | Can provide stress relief |
| Tangle Toys | Can promote relaxation and improve fine motor skills |
| Stress Balls | Can help reduce stress and tension |
7: Playing With Anything That Can Be Squashed Into a Small Shape and Bounces Back to Its Original Form
To add to your jar of stress balls, you can also play with a fidget spinner. Simply hold the toy between two fingers and rotate it around in circles.
You can do this for as long or as short a time as you want, and it’ll help you focus on something while reducing stress levels.
The pen roll is another relaxing way to use your hands while thinking. Hold a pen between two fingers and roll it back and forth between them, making sure that there are no gaps where the metal could touch skin (which could hurt).
If you don’t have anything nearby to write with, then try holding the pen by its tip instead of at its base so that there are no sharp edges pointing outward for anyone else nearby especially young children!
You can also wear pressure bracelets like those sold online through sites like Amazon or Etsy; these come in various different colors so that people who need them know which kind they’re wearing at all times (many also come with inspirational phrases on them).
These bracelets work similarly to traditional ones except they’re made from silicone rubber instead – which means they won’t cut off circulation when worn over long periods of time.
If you’re feeling stressed and need a way to unwind, sensory toys could be just what you need. Check out our article on 10 sensory toys that will help you unwind and de-stress for a range of sensory toy options that can help you feel more relaxed and calm.
8. Slicing open a Tube of Glittery Goo to Sit, Roll, or Throw Around
Unscrew the cap from the tube and pour or scoop out as much goo as you would like.
You might want to use a funnel, especially if you’re planning on making molds of shapes with it.
Your hands will probably get covered in glittery goo at some point while doing this, so make sure they’re clean before starting!
Be careful not to spill any of your glittery goo onto your clothes at any point it’s hard to get off once it’s dried there!
If this happens, try soaking your clothes in warm water with detergent for 15 minutes or so first before washing them normally again; this should help loosen up any remaining residue from where the goo was spilled on top without affecting anything else about how often yours gets washed normally every week (or however often).
9. Taking Control of a Pewi Walking Baby Ride On Toy by Ybike
Taking control of a Pewi Walking Baby Ride On Toy by Ybike is a great way to get rid of stress. This toy gives you the opportunity to have your own little baby, who looks like it’s having fun while you’re running around with it. The pewi can walk and dance! It comes in three colors: pink, blue, or green.
It has a six-month warranty and is suitable for children between 6 months and 3 years old. The pewi comes with a seat belt and parent handlebar so that you don’t have to worry about your child falling off or getting hurt in any way during playtime!
Are you new to using sensory toys for stress relief? Our article on a beginner’s guide to sensory toys for stress relief is the perfect starting point. It covers everything from the benefits of sensory play to different types of sensory toys and how to use them for stress relief.
10. Playing Games with Koosh Balls
Playing with Koosh balls is a great way to relieve stress. You can throw them, bounce them, or squeeze them. They’re soft and squishy and come in many different colors. They are also fun for adults and kids of all ages!
11. Pushing the Buttons on an Autistic Sensory Chew Necklace
Pushing the buttons on an autistic sensory chew necklace is a way for autistic children to calm and soothe themselves.
The tactile feedback of pushing the buttons can help with focusing attention, and it can also aid in communication, because it can be used as a means of asking for something or telling others about needs.
The sound, light, and vibration patterns that each button produces may be comforting or soothing to those who are hypersensitive to certain sounds, lights, or vibrations and this is especially true if the pattern matches their preference for sensory experiences like music or nature sounds (e.g., rain).
12. Pulling Back and Letting Go of Slingshot Flying Toy Screechers Owls
Slingshot Flying Toy Screechers Owls are a great stress reliever if you want something with a little more of an edge.
This is because they come with a slingshot and teach kids how to use it in order to get the owl flying through the air. Children can practice their aim, timing, and other skills that help them deal with stress by using this toy.
You can also use Slingshot Flying Toy Screechers Owls as part of your child’s imaginative play, which can help them relax as well. These toys come in different designs so you can find one that matches their interests or personality!
Conclusion
These are just some of the science-backed ways to relieve your stress. If you want to learn more about stress management and how it can help you become happier, take a look at our blog post on how to manage stress.
You can also check out our other articles on dealing with everyday life!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources on the topic of sensory toys and fidget toys:
The Science Behind Fidget Toys: This article explores the science behind fidget toys and how they can help with focus and attention.
Fidget toys for anxiety: Do they work?: This article examines the effectiveness of fidget toys in managing anxiety.
The Ultimate Guide to Fidget Toys and Benefits: This guide provides an in-depth look at different types of fidget toys and their benefits.
FAQs
What are fidget toys?
Fidget toys are small objects designed to be manipulated or played with to help reduce stress and anxiety, increase focus, and promote relaxation.
What types of fidget toys are available?
There are many different types of fidget toys available, including stress balls, fidget spinners, putty, squeeze toys, and more.
How do fidget toys work?
Fidget toys provide a sensory experience that can help reduce stress and anxiety, increase focus and attention, and promote relaxation. By providing a physical outlet for stress and anxiety, fidget toys can help individuals better manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being.
Who can benefit from using fidget toys?
Fidget toys can be helpful for individuals of all ages who experience stress, anxiety, or difficulty focusing. They can be particularly useful for individuals with ADHD, autism, or other sensory processing disorders.
Are there any drawbacks to using fidget toys?
While fidget toys can be helpful for many individuals, some people may find them distracting or unhelpful. It’s important to find a fidget toy that works well for you and to use it in a way that is appropriate for your needs.
Meet Hellen James, the multi-talented writer and nurturing mother who takes young readers on a thrilling journey through her sensory-infused blog. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences as a parent.
