Why do kids fidget?

By
Expert
Expert reviewed by
Español

  • Quick tip 1

    Let it happen.

    Kids don’t just fidget for no reason. They do it because it helps them stay calm. Unless they’re hurting themselves or others, it’s OK to let them keep doing it for as long as they feel the need to move.

  • Quick tip 2

    Find a replacement for harmful fidgeting.

    Sometimes kids fidget in ways that are harmful, like chewing their fingernails down to the quick. Work to find a behavior that still helps kids release their energy in the same way — but that doesn’t hurt them.

  • Quick tip 3

    Try a fidget.

    Sometimes kids need a fidget in order to stop fidgeting. Items like squeeze balls, Silly Putty, rubber bands, and even gum, are tools that can provide the movement and sensation kids need without bothering other people. 

  • Quick tip 4

    Allow for brain breaks.

    Kids who fidget may need an outlet for restless energy. Give them short breaks from what they’re doing to move around. It can reduce stress and frustration, as well as improve focus when they come back to what they were doing.

When kids are constantly fiddling and squirming, tapping, and touching things, you may wonder why it’s so hard for them to be relaxed and not move all the time.

Fidgeting is a way to deal with feeling restless or bored. Kids who fidget a lot don’t usually do it on purpose. Fidgeting might help them stay focused when they’re not interested, like during a long lesson or assembly. Or it can help kids deal with other distractions so they can focus on something they are interested in.

There are many reasons kids fidget a lot. Sometimes, it’s out of boredom. But common causes include anxiety, stress, hyperactivity, and attention problems. Kids with ADHD often fidget.

There isn’t much research on fidgeting. But one small study suggests that it’s the body’s way of trying to stay focused. Another suggests it’s just a sign of a wandering mind.

Fidgeting doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem. But it can create problems if it bothers other people.

Fidgeting involves small movements, not large ones. Here are some of the behaviors you might see:

  • Bouncing legs

  • Tapping toes

  • Clicking pens

  • Jingling coins or keys

  • Playing with small objects

  • Playing with hair or fingers

  • Fiddling with jewelry

  • Blinking a lot

It’s not the same as needing to move around, although some kids who fidget may also need to move around. Learn more about why kids may have trouble sitting still.

There are lots of simple and inexpensive tools to help with fidgeting. Explore different types of fidgets. You can even download and fill out a fidget contract to set expectations and give kids direction on how to use a fidget.

The first way you can help is to figure out why a kid fidgets so much. If ADHD is causing the constant need to move, you can treat the ADHD. If it’s anxiety, finding ways to reduce the anxiety could help. Keep an eye out for other signs of ADHD and signs of anxiety.

Families and teachers should stay connected and talk about what they’re seeing. When do kids fidget? What does the fidgeting look like? Sharing this information can help you see patterns and find solutions.

Keep in mind that fidgeting can get kids into trouble with adults. It can also lead to bullying. That’s why it’s so important to show empathy when kids fidget, instead of irritation. Talk openly about what you see, and let them know you’ll work together to find healthy ways to deal with fidgeting.