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Fidget Rings for Kids with ADHD: The Secret Weapon for Better Focus and Emotional Regulation

ADHD written on wooden blocks on a wooden table

ADHD affects millions of children and adults worldwide. The condition can cause a wide range of symptoms, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. While medication and therapy are often used to treat ADHD, many parents and caregivers are turning to fidget rings as a non-medical solution to curb hyperactivity and assist with emotional regulation. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of using fidget rings for kids with ADHD and how they can help improve focus, concentration, and productivity.

What is ADHD?

Coping with ADHD newspaper article

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects one in 20 children in Australia. It is more common in boys than girls. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning and development.

Children with ADHD may struggle with staying focused, following instructions, completing tasks, and controlling their impulses. They may also exhibit hyperactive behaviours such as fidgeting, squirming, or running around excessively. While the exact cause of ADHD is not known, research has suggested that it may be related to genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental factors such as prenatal exposure to nicotine or alcohol. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting.

 

 

Why is it essential to manage ADHD effectively?

Effective management of ADHD is crucial to improving the quality of life for individuals with the condition. Left untreated, ADHD can lead to many adverse outcomes, including poor academic performance, social difficulties, low self-esteem, and even substance abuse. However, with the right treatment, many children and adults with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms successfully and lead healthy, productive lives.

Do fidget toys help with ADHD?

The effectiveness of fidget toys, including fidget rings, in managing ADHD symptoms has been a topic of discussion. While some individuals swear by their benefits, others may remain sceptical. So, what does the research say?

According to a study by Schweitzer, Lewis, and Hartanto (2016)(1), movement can play a significant role in improving attention and focus for individuals with ADHD. Fidget toys provide an outlet for physical movement, allowing children to engage their bodies while maintaining cognitive engagement. Cloud (2009)(2) also emphasizes that fidgeting may facilitate learning for children with ADHD by helping them concentrate on tasks that require mental effort.

Research by Sarver, Rapport, Kofler, Raiker, and Friedman (2015)(3) suggests that hyperactivity observed in individuals with ADHD may be a compensatory behavior, aiding in self-regulation. Fidgeting and using sensory tools, like fidget toys, can potentially serve as a constructive outlet for hyperactivity and help individuals with ADHD achieve a more focused and attentive state.

How can fidget rings help children with ADHD?

What Are Fidget Rings?

Fidget rings: The Secret Spinners: Fidget rings, also known as anxiety rings, worry rings or meditation rings are a genius combination of classic fidget toys and functional jewellery designed to keep restless hands happily occupied. They come in various designs and materials. Some have spinning tops, such as the sun ring or the cherry blossom ring. Some have beads and can be adjusted to fit almost any finger size, such as this adjustable silver ring. Very popular with kids are the spinning colour-changing mood rings. 

Mood ring on a white flowerFlower band worry ring on a woman's hand next to a white flowerGold adjustable fidget ring with beads on a woman's hand next to a white flower

Benefits of Fidget Rings for Kids with ADHD: Fidget rings, with their various types and designs, provide an engaging and tactile outlet for fidgeting, helping kids to focus better, regulate their emotions and reduce symptoms of hyperactivity. Here are some of the key benefits of using fidget rings for kids with ADHD:

Reduced Symptoms of Hyperactivity

Hyperactive boy with ADHD on a chair

One of the hallmark symptoms of ADHD is hyperactivity, which can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, and excessive movement. Research has shown that fidget rings can play a vital role in improving focus and reducing hyperactivity among children with ADHD.

According to a study conducted at Florida State University, fidgeting can actually be helpful for ADHD patients. The study found that allowing children with ADHD to engage in purposeful fidgeting, such as using fidget rings, improved their attention and performance on cognitive tasks ("Squirm with purpose: Fidgeting is helpful for ADHD patients, study shows," Florida State University, 2016)(4). This suggests that fidgets provide an outlet for excess energy, allowing children to channel their restless tendencies into a constructive and focused activity.

 

 

Improved Focus and Concentration

The fidget fix: Another common symptom of ADHD is difficulty focusing and sustaining attention on tasks. Have you ever wondered how fidget rings work their magic on attention and concentration? Well, here's the inside scoop: when children with ADHD engage with fidget rings, their hands are occupied with spinning the ring, which helps satisfy their need for movement. This allows their minds to focus better on the task at hand. It's like giving their restless thoughts a fun ride while their attention stays on track.

A study titled "Using Fidget Spinners to Improve On-Task Classroom Behavior for Students With ADHD" conducted by Aspirant and Hulac examined the effects of using fidget spinners, a type of fidget toy similar to fidget rings, on the on-task behaviour of students with ADHD. The study found that students who used fidget spinners during academic tasks showed improved on-task behaviour and decreased off-task behaviour compared to when they did not have access to the spinners (Aspirant & Hulac, n.d.)(5). This indicates that fidget rings, like fidget spinners, can enhance attention and concentration in children with ADHD.

Enhanced Emotional Regulation

Calm boy with ADHD

Beyond Focus: The Emotional Side: ADHD is not just about attention and hyperactivity; emotional dysregulation often accompanies this condition. Children with ADHD may struggle with managing their emotions, leading to outbursts and difficulty in self-regulation. This is where fidget rings can lend a helping hand, or rather, a finger.

Fidget Rings and Emotional Regulation: According to WebMD, the repetitive motion of spinning a fidget ring can be soothing, acting as a self-regulation technique. When faced with a surge of overwhelming emotions, children can turn to their trusty fidget rings to find a moment of calmness and regain control ("Can Fidget Spinners Help You Focus?" WebMD, 2017 (6). This aligns with anecdotal evidence from parents and educators who have observed the positive impact of fidget rings on emotional regulation in children with ADHD.

 

 

Increased Productivity in School

ADHD boy with an abacus

Children with ADHD often struggle with academic performance due to focus, attention, and organization difficulties.

Fidget rings can help increase productivity in school by providing an outlet for excess energy and improving focus and concentration. A study published in the "Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology" found that children with ADHD who used fidget toys during academic tasks completed their work more quickly and accurately than those who did not use fidget toys.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mental Health Benefits

When it comes to managing ADHD, it's not just about improving focus and reducing hyperactivity. Mental health plays a crucial role in the well-being of children with ADHD, and fidget rings can also have a positive impact in this area.

Studies have shown that fidgeting, including the use of fidget rings, can help alleviate anxiety and stress in individuals with ADHD. The tactile stimulation provided by fidget rings can offer a comforting and grounding experience as a form of self-soothing and stress relief. This can be particularly helpful during challenging or overwhelming situations.

Furthermore, fidget rings can contribute to the development of emotional regulation skills. Children with ADHD often struggle with managing their emotions and may experience intense mood swings. The tactile feedback from fidget rings can provide a calming influence, allowing them to regain control and regulate their emotions more effectively. Additionally, fidget rings can serve as a non-medical tool to manage symptoms of ADHD, reducing the reliance on medication as the sole treatment option.

So, don't underestimate the power of these tiny spinning wonders. Fidget rings go beyond enhancing focus and reducing hyperactivity; they also offer mental health benefits, providing comfort, stress relief, and emotional regulation for children with ADHD.

Addressing Skepticism and Counterarguments

Skeptical woman in a grey shirt and curly hair

Now, hold on just a second! We can almost hear the skeptics murmuring in the back row. "Aren't fidget rings just another distraction?" Well, fear not, dear readers, for science has our back.

The Florida State University study mentioned earlier states that fidgeting, when directed through purposeful tools like fidget rings, can actually enhance focus and cognitive performance (Florida State University, 2016). It's like turning a potential distraction into a secret weapon for concentration.

Of course, it's important to remember that every child is unique. While fidget rings may work wonders for most, there may be a few exceptions. The key is to listen to your child's cues and find what works best for them.

 

 

 

 

How to Choose and Use Fidget Rings for Kids with ADHD

Selecting the Right Fidget Ring

Now that you're convinced of the magic within these tiny circles of wonder, it's time to dive into the practical side of things. When choosing a fidget ring, consider your child's preferences and needs. Let their personality guide the way. According to the study by Aspiranti and Hulac, individual preferences for fidget spinners (similar to fidget rings) were found to impact their effectiveness in improving on-task behavior (Aspiranti & Hulac, n.d.).

Dainty beaded rings are ideal for young kids with thin fingers. They are also a good choice when you’d like to gift a spinning ring to a teenager whose finger size you don’t know. The best seller for adults and teenagers are band sparkly rings that come in 6 colours that can match any taste and outfit.

Planet gold spinner ring on a coralBlue, rainbow, black anxiety rings on a withe backgroundSun ring for anxiety on a coral

Incorporating Fidget Rings into Daily Routines

Incorporating fidget rings into daily routines and learning environments is key. Encourage your child to wear their fidget ring during homework sessions, study time, or even during class (with the teacher's permission, of course!). Make it a part of their ADHD management toolkit, always within arm's reach when the need arises.

Real-Life Success Stories

But don't just take our word for it! Let's hear it straight from the parents and caregivers who have witnessed the wonders of our fidget rings firsthand.

Anxiety rings review

 

Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Fidget Rings for Kids with ADHD

Fidget Rings: Your Child's Ally: In a world that often tries to suppress the natural energy and creativity of children with ADHD, fidget rings offer a refreshing perspective. A valuable tool for parents and caregivers of children with ADHD, spinning rings provide a non-medical solution to manage symptoms of hyperactivity, improve focus, enhance emotional regulation, increase productivity in school, and provide mental health benefits.

While fidget rings should not replace traditional treatments such as medication and therapy, they can serve as complementary tools to help individuals with ADHD manage their symptoms and lead healthy, productive lives. So, if you're looking for a clever and stylish solution to help your child with ADHD, consider embracing the delightful spin of fidget rings. Remember, it's not just about a ring that spins; it's about unlocking the secret spin to better focus, enhanced emotional regulation, and a world of possibilities for your child.

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