Why do kids fidget?

By Amanda Morin

Expert reviewed by Ellen Braaten, PhD

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  • 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.

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