The Calm Kits we introduced into each Homeroom and Specialist classroom last year were so successful that we are bringing them back and stocking them with even more fidgets and calming tools. During our teacher in-service week, I enjoyed reintroducing the Calm Kits to the teachers. We read an excellent article by Dr. Roland Rotts that detailed the importance of fidgets for students with ADHD. What I love about the article is that Dr. Rotts includes a list of criteria for fidgets that help with focus and are learning tools.

Taken from the article, “How Does Fidgeting Enhance Focus for Individuals with ADHD,” by Roland Rotts, PhD

With this in mind, I added the following tools to our Calm Kits.

Schylling Needoh Nice Cube Sensory Toy with a Super Solid Squish

These are the best squishy fidgets! They are easy to clean, and nothing leaks out of them! I brought them to a faculty meeting, and the teachers enjoyed squeezing them….they didn’t want to give them back!

DNA Balls – Fidget Toy Stress Ball

Another great squishy stress ball that all ages love to use.

Schylling NeeDoh Ramen Noodlies – Sensory Squeeze Toy – Contains 5 Noodle Clumps

Ms. Barker, our Librarian, showed me this fun fidget and said students love to use them, and they are clean and not distracting. So I thought we would give them a try in our Calm Kits!

Fidget Toys Sensory Rings for Kids

I thought we would try these spinner rings, as they looked small enough to not be distracting.

Worry Stones

These textured rubber “stones” are the perfect size for a child to keep in their pocket and rub when they are worried. I like that they are easily cleanable.

Calm Stickers

I LOVE these Calm Stickers. They can be stuck anywhere…on the table, desk, a student’s pencil box….the possibilities are endless! The messages and calming strategies printed on the stickers are also helpful.

Here is last year’s post on Calm Kits 2024