Helpful Blogs
From the Schoolyard to the World Stage: How a Young Entrepreneur is Changing Lives with Sensory Tools
It started with schoolyard teasing—but Kai turned that moment into a million-dollar idea. Recently featured on The Morning Show with Larry and Kylie, Kai and his mum Jo shared how Kaiko Fidgets grew from one homemade tool into a life-changing brand helping thousands around the world.
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Innovating University Sensory Solutions With Kaiko Fidgets
How Kaiko Fidgets Is Revolutionising Educational and University Sensory Equipment in Australia Kaiko Fidgets is transforming how educational institutions and universities in Australia support neurodivergent teens and adults. The company offers discreet, high-quality fidget toys and sensory equipment designed to improve focus, reduce anxiety, and create inclusive learning environments. By merging lived experience with innovation, Kaiko Fidgets ensures its products meet rigorous safety and durability standards while addressing diverse sensory processing needs in classrooms and universities. What Makes Kaiko Fidgets’ Sensory Equipment Unique in Australian Education? Kaiko Fidgets’ commitment to quality, innovation, and inclusivity sets its products apart. Developed in collaboration with neurodivergent individuals and occupational therapy experts, their range—including fidget toys, spikey rings, weighted blankets, and textured cushions—provides effective tactile stimulation without drawing unwanted attention. Durable and crafted to meet stringent Australian safety standards, these tools improve concentration and reduce anxiety in busy, dynamic educational settings. How Does Kaiko Fidget Innovate Sensory Tools for Schools and Universities? Kaiko Fidgets combines cutting-edge design with proven sensory research. Its team of educators, therapists, and designers uses continuous classroom feedback to refine products that support fine motor skills and minimise distractions. Regular testing in schools and universities confirms the real-world performance and evolving functionality of each innovation. What Quality Standards Ensure Kaiko Fidgets Products Are Safe and Durable? The company exceeds industry benchmarks through comprehensive testing—including stress tests and material assessments—to ensure durability. Using non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials that comply with Australian safety standards, Kaiko Fidgets builds trust among educators and parents with regularly audited and certified products. How Are Kaiko Fidgets’ Designs Tailored to Sensory-Friendly Learning Environments? The designs blend subtle aesthetics with functionality. Textured cushions and weighted blankets offer deep pressure input to regulate sensory overload, while the products’ unobtrusive appearance allows them to integrate naturally into classroom settings. Feedback from teachers and students ensures that the equipment both supports focus and enhances the overall learning atmosphere. What Are the Benefits of Using Kaiko Fidgets’ Educational Sensory Equipment? Kaiko Fidgets’ sensory tools help improve academic performance by addressing sensory processing challenges. By minimising sensory disruptions, these products support better concentration, emotional regulation, and a positive learning atmosphere, benefiting all students, including those with neurodivergent needs. How Do Fidget Toys Improve Focus and Reduce Anxiety in Students? Designed for discreet physical activity, Kaiko Fidgets’ toys channel excess energy and reduce anxiety. They empower students to self-regulate without disrupting peers. Teachers note reduced fidgeting and improved engagement when these tools are incorporated into daily classroom routines. What Sensory Processing Resources Does Kaiko Fidgets Provide for Diverse Learners? The company offers a range of resources—from fidget toys and sensory bins with varied textures to calming weighted items—that address challenges faced by children with ADHD, autism, or other sensory processing disorders. These flexible resources help educators tailor classroom strategies to individual learning styles. How Do Weighted Blankets and Textured Cushions Support Sensory Needs? Weighted blankets and textured cushions provide consistent deep pressure stimulation that has been linked to reduced anxiety and increased calm. Engineered for even weight distribution and soft tactile feedback, these products contribute to better emotional regulation and readiness to learn when used in sensory break areas. How Are Kaiko Fidgets Supporting Innovative Learning Tools for Universities? Kaiko Fidgets extends its approach to meet the complex sensory needs of university students. Recognising the high stress and sensory overload common during intensive academic periods, the company provides discrete, effective tools that enhance concentration and support stress management. This inclusive approach makes campuses more welcoming and productive. What Sensory Equipment Is Best Suited for Higher Education Settings? For university environments, products like subtle fidget pens, compact spikey rings, and portable sensory kits offer discreet solutions during lengthy lectures and study sessions. Validated through pilot programs, these tools help manage stress without drawing undue attention in lecture theatres, libraries, or study groups. How Do Kaiko Fidget Products Enhance Concentration in University Students? University students benefit from minimalistic yet effective sensory stimulation that prevents cognitive fatigue. Ergonomically designed and discreetly styled, the products provide a subtle outlet for stress, helping students maintain focus during demanding academic tasks. What Role Do Sensory Tools Play in Creating Inclusive University Classrooms? By addressing a range of sensory processing needs, Kaiko Fidgets fosters an inclusive classroom setting where every student can participate fully. Sensory tools level the playing field for neurodivergent students, reduce distractions, and promote mutual understanding among diverse learners. How Can Australian Schools Implement Sensory-Friendly Classroom Ideas With Kaiko Fidgets? Australian schools can easily integrate Kaiko Fidgets’ products into their learning spaces. Designed to complement classroom decor, these tools support both neurotypical and neurodivergent students. Practical strategies include setting up dedicated sensory zones and incorporating regular sensory breaks to create a balanced, stress-reducing environment. What Are Effective Sensory-Friendly Classroom Setups Using Kaiko Fidgets Products? Effective setups feature designated sensory corners equipped with weighted blankets, textured cushions, and discreet fidget items. Flexible seating arrangements and rotating equipment based on student needs ensure every child has access to supportive tools that enhance concentration and reduce anxiety. How Do Teachers Integrate Fidget Toys Into Daily Learning Activities? Teachers incorporate fidget toys as part of routine classroom practices. With clear guidelines on their use during independent work or group discussions, these tools help maintain attention and reduce disruptions. Educators observe improved task completion rates and smoother transitions between activities. What Feedback Do Educators Share About Sensory Equipment in Classrooms? Educators report significant improvements in student concentration and emotional regulation when using Kaiko Fidgets’ products. They appreciate the discreet design, durability, and safety, noting that the equipment withstands regular classroom use while enhancing learning outcomes. Why Is Kaiko Fidgets the Leading Choice for Educational Sensory Equipment in Australia? Kaiko Fidgets is the preferred choice in Australia due to its unwavering focus on quality, innovation, and inclusivity. Tailoring its products to meet the unique needs of neurodivergent students and educators, the company relies on robust research and continuous feedback to deliver effective and stylish sensory solutions for educational settings. How Does Kaiko Fidgets Cater Specifically to the Australian Educational Market? By addressing local learning challenges and curriculum demands, Kaiko Fidgets designs products that align with Australian educational standards. Collaborations with local educators and experts ensure that every tool is practical, ergonomically sound, and culturally resonant. What Customer Success Stories Highlight Kaiko Fidgets’ Impact in Schools? Australian schools have noted significant improvements in focus and reduced anxiety following the implementation of Kaiko Fidgets’ sensory kits. Testimonials reveal increased classroom participation and better behavioural outcomes, validating the positive impact of these tools. How Does Kaiko Fidgets Ensure Ongoing Product Innovation and Support? Continuous innovation is maintained through regular workshops, feedback sessions, and investments in research and development. Ongoing customer support and educational resources empower educators to adapt and maximise the benefits of each product, ensuring long-term success. What Are the Key Sensory Processing Resources Offered by Kaiko Fidgets? Kaiko Fidgets provides an extensive suite of sensory tools designed to support emotional regulation and cognitive focus. Its offerings—from fidget toys and sensory bins to weighted blankets and textured cushions—cater to a diverse range of sensory needs, ensuring that both subtle and robust tactile stimulations are available for everyday use. Which Fidget Toys and Sensory Bins Are Most Popular Among Students? Popular choices include hand rollers, spikey rings, and compact sensory bins known for their portability, durability, and discreet design. These products promote hand-eye coordination and offer calming tactile feedback, earning high satisfaction and repeated orders from educators. How Do Sensory Cushions and Weighted Blankets Complement Learning Environments? These tools create a calm ambience by providing consistent deep pressure and tactile input. Weighted blankets reduce anxiety with a comforting, even pressure, while sensory cushions contribute to adaptable seating arrangements that boost student engagement and comfort. What Additional Tools Does Kaiko Fidgets Provide for Sensory Integration? Additional offerings include specialised desk accessories and discreet acoustic devices that reduce environmental distractions. These tools support auditory processing and help educators build layered sensory strategies tailored to each student’s needs. How Does Kaiko Fidgets Address the Needs of Students With Sensory Processing Challenges? Kaiko Fidgets designs tools to mitigate sensory overload and support self-regulation in neurodivergent individuals. By using evidence-based research and continuous product feedback, their products help manage overstimulation and promote focus, which is crucial for academic success and emotional stability. What Sensory Equipment Supports Students With ADHD and Autism? For students with ADHD and autism, tools such as fidget rings, hand rollers, and discreet weighted items provide calming proprioceptive input and controlled movement. These aids help reduce anxiety and improve concentration without causing classroom disruptions. How Do Kaiko Fidget Products Help Manage Sensory Overload in Classrooms? By offering structured outlets for excess sensory input, these products enable students to channel nervous energy. The calming effect of weighted tools and textured fidget items contributes to smoother transitions between activities and a more harmonious learning environment. What Training or Resources Does Kaiko Fidgets Offer Educators for Sensory Support? Educators receive access to online webinars, instructional videos, and detailed user guides. These resources help teachers integrate sensory tools effectively into lesson plans and adapt their strategies based on regular sensory assessments and feedback. Final Thoughts Kaiko Fidgets is revolutionising sensory support in Australian schools and universities by delivering innovative, high-quality, and inclusive tools. With products that meet strict safety standards and address varied sensory needs, the company fosters environments where both young learners and university students can thrive. Consistent positive feedback and real-world success stories underscore the essential role of Kaiko Fidgets in enhancing focus and emotional well-being. Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do Kaiko Fidget's tools help improve focus in classrooms? A: They provide discreet tactile stimulation that channels excess energy, reducing anxiety and enhancing concentration in diverse learning environments. Q: What types of sensory equipment does Kaiko Fidgets offer for educational settings? A: Their range includes fidget toys, sensory bins, weighted blankets, textured cushions, and additional desk accessories designed for both schools and universities. Q: Are Kaiko Fidgets products safe and durable for daily classroom use? A: Yes, each product undergoes rigorous testing to meet Australian safety standards and is made from non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials that ensure long-lasting durability. Q: How does Kaiko Fidgets support educators in integrating sensory tools into classrooms? A: They offer comprehensive training, user guides, and professional development resources to help educators manage sensory overload and enhance academic focus.
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The Social Confidence Collective
Meet the OTs and Directors behind The Social Confidence Collective. We’re also mums, good friends and colleagues from a long way back, and we’re passionate Kaiko customers and stockists!The Social Confidence Collective is an Occupational Therapy practice based in Melbourne. As the name might suggest, we focus on working with young people towards their social goals: things like feeling more confident or connected with others.
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Podcast with Unpacking Neuroqueerness
In this episode George talks with Joanne Seymon about the story behind "Kaiko Fidgets", a fidget tool company that Joanne and her son Kai founded together. Joanne and George also talk about how fidget tools can be essential for hyperactive kids and adults who may struggle with self harm or simply need self stimulation in order to focus or regulate sensory input.
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Podcast with Osher Günsberg
Listen as Osher Günsberg talks about why he loves Kaiko hand rollers and chain fidgets, especially when doing podcasts. He loves how quiet they are, the weight & repetitive nature of them. We love his Podcast - Better Than Yesterday & couldn't believe when he, unprompted, chatted about his love of Kai's fidgets. Won't lie... pretty amazing and humbled. Kai cant get the grin off his face. Thanks Osher!
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Jo chats ‘all things’ Sensory Regulation with Monique & Michelle on the The Neurodivergent Woman Podcast
A few months ago, I had the privilege to be invited to chat on The Neurodivergent Woman Podcast with Monique & Michelle. I won’t lie, it took me more than a month to listen to it. The day it was recorded, I was actually having a ‘neurospicy’ meltdown and was struggling to mask during the recording. Consequently, I very much felt it was the worst podcast I’d ever done in terms of chatting and sharing. After it went live, I was flooded with messages thanking me and sharing its impact on those that had listened. It gave me the ‘courage’ to finally listen. I sat in my car, together with my mum, so that I had support if needed, lol. Months later, I am still getting frequent, gorgeous emails of encouragement. So, thank you! Today I share the link with you, not so much so you get to listen to my voice (grin), but more so, that there might be some gems contained within that might encourage, affirm or comfort you. Link to Podcast I can’t thank Monique & Michelle enough for the trust and opportunity to be on the podcast and for holding the ‘space’ in a safe way that I could be authentic and real. Jo
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Why 'ouch' can be helpful & tools that offer a 'safe' alternative to self harm.... *content trigger warning*
A little ‘neurospicy’ side share … We thought we got super clever with the name - it's a SPIKEY & its a KEYRING. So spiKEYring... However.... not the easiest to pronounce we have found LOL... These have been 2 years in the making. It took a number of moulds to get the right amount of ‘ouch’ input and lots of ADHD overwhelm on my part to make the final call on them being ready to manufacture. The simplistic design doesn’t reflect the sheer amount of over thinking that has gone into the creation. I wanted them to be ‘perfect’ as their purpose is important. Sooooooo having these finally arrive is super personal and satisfying. It has taken me a while to share as it is a tricky topic for me to openly talk about. I very much hope for grace and kindness as I brave this topic. I frequently field questions from individuals & I’m comfortable to do so one on one. I feel privileged that individuals trust me to discuss it. However, it is entirely different to publicly touch on the topic. I hope its ok for you that I am. I genuinely apologise & understand if it is not ok for you. Please feel free not to read on… especially if it will trigger anything personally, as that is not my intention. It is not a warm and fluffy topic I know… It is an IMPORTANT one though, so brave I will be! I also hope that it helps those who struggle be 'kinder' to themselves & validates the very genuine need for strong sensory input. First I’ll share with you a little about our new tool . Then I will unpack a little more about the ‘why’ of these tools from my own perspective… Our new spiKEYring The drive to develop this tool specifically has been born out of a need for an ‘on hand’ tool that does not need to be worn on wrist or finger, like our wrist and finger spikeys, due to sensory aversions. We also recognised that having a tool that can double as a ‘picking’ support would be helpful for many. So off to the drawing board we went…. Our spiKEYring has a fidget loop securing 2 detachable double sided sensory supports for tactile input, ‘picking’ support and 'hurt' without harm. It is a TWIN SET on a secure fidget loop featuring : a double sided textured flexible pad with silicone bristles which is both sensory and a helpful picking support. & a double sided textured pad with PVC 'spikey' bristles providing 'ouch' without harm & also picking support. Link to product For many, including myself, strong sensory input (pain) is something that assists with regulation, relieving emotional distress and assists in ‘decompressing’ in an moment of overwhelm. Many have expressed to me the purpose of the NSSI isn’t to harm themselves or cause injury, even though that is often the outcome. Some examples of high sensory input or NSSI that we get asked to find replacements for are skin picking, pinching, scratching & slapping face, digging pen into leg, hair twirl/pulling, eyelash pulling, digging nails into palms, burning, biting, chewing, head hitting and cutting. What can often then follow is shame, risk of infection, injury and distress for both the individual and/or for loved ones. I have certainly found it one of the most challenging things to journey through as a family. For us, it has created a space for open conversations, enabled insight & validation and has gone on to inspire our passionate interest in developing these tools. Pain causes the central nervous system to release the ‘feel good’ endorphins. Some have shared it “helps divert the emotional pain in their head” and for others that it assists in breaking feelings of numbness or feeling ‘lost’. Also shared is that physical pain can be ‘easier’ to deal with than the emotional pain. In writing this, I also reached out to Jade, long time Kaiko connection & also the original inspiration for our wrist spikey. This is what they shared about their personal experience. “For me it's mostly about control. Have ASD etc and chronic pain, that is all out of my control. It is incredibly difficult and frustrating to deal with. Having the spiKEYring, for example, gives me chances to express my frustration, my rage and sometimes to inflict pain when I want it, not when my body decides to give it to me. That pain also makes sense to me. When I use these safe self-harming options to cause pain I have a sensory loop of "my hand hurts, it hurts because I used the spiKEYring" and that is relieving. Compared to emotional dysregulation where you feel upset without context at times. I love that these products exist!“ Jade April 2024. (sharing with permission) Although the ‘why’ behind each individuals’ journey varies, having supports that can ‘safely’ provide high input/ouch can be immensely helpful. Not the only strategy for support of course, but a vital part of the tool kit for many. Finding various ‘safe’ ways to meet this genuine & valid sensory need has therefore become a focus for us and we are thrilled to share with you the latest arrival - the spiKEYing. So many of our clients vulnerably share with us their journeys navigating this complex sensory need. Our hope is that having tools on hand that are discreet, provide ‘ouch’ without breaking the skin and also some that provide ‘heavy’ work for the body (such as resistance) provide the support needed in those moments. Many also find extreme cold helpful in a similar way. Placing metal fidgets in the fridge is worth trying. Extra minty and/or spicy things also can provide similar benefit. The key is having ‘safe’ options, in addition to partnering with your GP &/or clinical team to identify and navigate additional supports, referrals and resources. In addition to our new spiKEYring, we have developed a number of other wearable tools. We have a dedicated section on our website for harm minimisation tools. Watching the video on the product pages regarding ways to use each tool is super helpful as, often, the most effective way is the lest expected or common way of using. I am also happy to confidentially field questions via email or phone if that is helpful for you. We also have a number in the ‘pipeline’, including a kit specifically created for those that struggle with trichotillomania and a large ‘spikey’ bead that will be used in multiples to create a hand fidget, similar to our galaxy fidget, but with ‘ouch’. We welcome suggestions anytime & love to co-design tools. Thank you for allowing me to talk about this & I hope this has been helpful in some way. Jo Some other products that provide we have on our website that provide 'safe ouch' or assist with other forms of NSSI (such as hair pulling) are our... the above new Spikeyring finger & wrist spikeys - we have a set that has a wrist spikey and both sizes in finger spikeys). It is important to pick the correct size for these, see the descriptions on product page. Also important to watch the videos on how to use both styles as the most helpful & ouchy ways are the least expected/thought of. calm buddi (very ouchy) detonator (textured picking, slightly abrasive base) double sided massage glove - one side ouchy, other rollers for massage pick 'em range - support replacement of skin picking, hair pulling and popping. resistance bands spikey massage roller and ball chain maille range Speks Original Silver necklace or hand caterpillar Noomi Squeezibo Kaiko Extreme Squishy Extreme Lost Your Sh!t Kit & can be found in our harm minimisation & regulation sections on our website. If you have specific questions feel free to reach out to me at jo@kaikofidgets.com
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Chew Supports … where to start??
I get asked about chewing and supports frequently. So i thought I would share with you my tips and thoughts. Understanding what is often behind the chewing can be helpful…. When trying to emotionally regulate/calm it is instinctive to be ‘oral’ . Our brain is wired to seek oral input to calm/regulate/stabilise… it’s why we often comfort eat, chew nails, fingers, tops, clothes, even ‘over’ talking can be based in this need! I’m sure it is a ‘story’ many of us are familiar with. Also, crunchy foods such as carrots, apples and things like chewing gum & chewy lollies are an instinctive ‘go to’ for many. These become an even more powerful tool when we understand why so that it may become a conscious tool we seek when needed. It’s helpful to know that our core stabilisation starts in the mouth. Chewing is often a direct response to needing to stabilise core/decrease cortisol /adrenaline and brain’s way of trying to increase focus/regulate. Sensory tools (including chewing) do greatly assist with reducing anxiety for most. What actually happens in the brain is .. When anxious or stressed our survival/instinctive part of brain SWITCHES ON (amygdala) & releases cortisol and adrenalin which SWITCHES OFF the front part of the brain (frontal cortex which is essentially responsible for executive function (learning, thinking , reason etc) ….. SO when we are anxious or stressed or under ‘threat’ ADRENALIN & CORTISOL are high = FLIGHT FIGHT ON / EXECUTIVE FUNCTION OFF MOVEMENT activates the part of the brain that DROPS ADRENALIN & CORTISOL - any movement does this which is why chewing & fidgeting are awesome, as are big movements such as tumbling, jumping, walking etc as ADRENALIN & CORTISOL lower, the executive function (front part) of brain can SWITCH BACK ON and allow concentration/function/learning/ listening etc The jaw, being the closest moving joint to the brain, is the most ‘efficient’ body movement & why JAW MOVEMENT is often the brains ‘go to’ when anxious. Of course, for some, chewing gum is not an option (texture, taste, additives etc etc) and that’s perfectly OK. Honestly, the KEY is the jaw movement or CHEW factor – so anything that allows a rigorous chew is a great alternative. There are many brands of chew supports on the market. We exclusively stock the ARK range. We like that they are made in the USA with strict testing and safety information. We love that they are designed by a team of therapists. Chewing as a sensory support is something that for many continues into adulthood and is perfectly valid, so we highly rate the fact that they have a range suitable for teens and adults. Finally, my favourite part is that ARK come in a range of textures, thicknesses and strengths – Standard (softest), Medium (XT) and Firm/toughest (XXT). “I want to try a chew support, where do I start?” I typically like to explore what the person is using intuitively, as that will give important information about the shape or style of chew support to try. If putting items into the back of mouth and using molars is the ‘go to’ then something that is long in shape so that it reaches the same area is a helpful start. If, for example, chewing on skin, hands, straws, bottle tops I tend to suggest chew supports that allow ‘collapse’ on chew, such as the ARK hollow range. Necklace Hollow Bite Tube by ARK HAND Hollow Bite Tube by ARK ARK HOLLOW & Textured P Grabber Oral Chew I am chewing through my chew supports really quickly, any suggestions?” I also think it is worth trying the hollow variety above for those that are ‘aggressive’ chewers and going through chews quickly. Counter intuitively, I find often when chews are getting destroyed it’s because the ‘mouth’ isn’t getting the right sort of oral feedback it needs i.e. it is seeking ‘collapse’ (similar to chewing on skin, cheek, straws, gum etc ) so it chews HARDER into the chews trying to achieve the collapse …but not getting it …so chewing even harder which results in its quick demise. This is not true for all but certainly worth considering. The ARK pen and pencil toppers can also be used as a hollow chew support when taken off the pen/pencil. They make a terrific small in pocket size hollow chew. ARK Write-n-Bite Chewable Pencil Topper ARK Write-n-Bite Chewable Pen Topper “Which strength should I choose?” This is so personal & depends on the style and degree of chewing. I tend to suggest starting with the middle (XT) strength, unless they are a ‘light chewer’ then the softest (standard) strength is usually the most tolerated. The ARK Chewth Pick (both the smooth and textured varieties on our website) actually have a packet of 3 strengths in one which is great for testing strengths if unsure. These are small chew supports so might not suit everyone. “What style should I try?” Again, so dependant on the individuals age, style of chewing and purpose of the chew support. There are wearables such as necklaces with breakaway clasps & wrist chews. Also, ARK have a handheld range and chew supports that are pen & pencil toppers. Often, it’s a combination of these that works well. Preference for shape (which impacts the experience in oral input) and texture (smooth or textured) also important to consider in selection. It is helpful to understand that chew supports are consumables and do need replacement, sometimes regularly. Once you find the supports that work best, having duplicates as backups an excellent idea. If the chew is showing signs of wear/deterioration it’s time to replace. It is also important to regularly wash them. Warm soapy water works well. I hope this helps in you embracing the benefits of chew supports, whether it be crunchy foods, chewing gum or tools such as the ARK range. JO
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Fidgets: Designing sensory tools that people need
I stumbled onto the Kaiko Fidgets website and was excited to see a home-grown small business that was meeting a need for adults and teens with sensory needs. I reached out to Joanne Seymon to see if she was keen to have a virtual chat. We exchanged friendly banter over email, confirmed a date and before I knew it, I received a generous package of Kaiko Fidgets at my doorstep to try out. The colourful array of objects of different shapes and sizes beckoned me to have a play – and play I did. So did my family, and our friends! I observed how each person chose a different fidget based on tactile preference, different neurotypes but all keen to explore. Jo and her son, Kai, are the brains trust behind Kaiko Fidgets. Kaiko Fidgets grew out of Kai’s dissatisfaction in the sensory aids that were already on the market. He felt they were noisy, embarrassing to take into school and just not very cool. So, he set off designing what he thought would be a more attractive alternative. Kaiko Fidgets started as a two-fidget range, designed by Kai and sold via a stall on a card table at the local arcade. After a surge of interest, they took their product to local craft markets in 2016 and the business ramped up before Covid hit in 2020. By that stage, schools had become a strong client base, purchasing the fidgets for students and teachers. Jo describes herself as a ‘neurosparkly’ business owner who will often hyperfocus on new ideas. An Occupational Therapist by vocation, Jo is hands-on supporting the business and helping Kai, who is completing high school. Today, the Kaiko range provides options for diverse sensory profiles – from cog spinners, (my personal fave), to heavy hand grips, bicycle chains, a spikey range and multi coloured spinning cubes. From acupressure to rolling beads to aids that spin and provide a soft vibration and humming sound. The range targets teens and adults but is suitable for younger ages too. The design process starts with a simple drawing that is transformed into a prototype and rigorously tested. Obtaining the team’s input is an important part of the design process, so too is taking suggestions and inspiration from their customers. Between Kai, Jo and their customers, they have successfully created products that suit a large range of needs. Kaiko Fidgets now employs 10 staff, most of whom are neurodivergent, and carers who are supporting their neurospicy family. A majority of the team work part-time or flexible hours. Kai is hoping to grow the business after he finishes high school. For now, he spends his break times constructing the fidgets and encouraging others with sensory needs to use his cool products with pride. The Kaiko Fidgets range can be found at www.kaikofidgets.com. - Natalie Phillips-Mason from Inclusive Change
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Not all Heroes Wear Capes - The Story of a Young Entrepreneur
Introducing another young (11 years of age) proudly neurodistinct entrepreneur Jasper We received a wonderful email from Jasper and his mum, which not only brightened our day but also shared exciting news about Jasper's new business venture. We wanted to pass it on to our community to inspire you to chase your dreams. Additionally, we hope some of you might connect with Jasper for a custom-made survival band (his contact details below). Well done, Jasper! Impressive! From Jasper's mum, shared with permission: "Kai, you are an ABSOLUTE inspiration and remind me so much of our son, Jasper. We love your products and have loads... not so many recently as our funding has been cut. Jasper is an Autistic, ADHD'er who's also Dyslexic. He's found school really tricky this year and is now homeschooling (unschooling). Like you, Jasper is also an entrepreneur and has found his passion (and confidence) with his new business idea. He loves anything survival and outdoors. He's big into BMX, Mountain biking and pretty much anything dangerous. His business is making and selling survival bands and key chains at a local market. I'll pop his Facebook link below. I just want to thank you, as Jasper’s Mum I know he'll be able to do what he loves and succeed like you are. -Fleur (Jasper’s mum)" From Jasper: "Hi, I’m Jasper, I am 11 years old and love the outdoors. I particularly enjoy mountain biking, geocaching, and spending time in the bush. My small business, ‘SURVIVAL BY JASPER’ was inspired by going to bush school and the movie ‘Mad Max’. My survival bands and keychains are not only fashionable but could literally save your life! In a survival situation, simply undo the paracord and you have up to 11 feet. Uses may include, but are not limited to: •Replacing your tent guy-lines •Replacing your shoelaces •Tie gear to your backpack •Make a washing line •Wrap a tool handle •Build a shelter •Create trip wires! •Fishing line •Make a fire •Build a raft •First aid – use as a tourniquet And of course – to look fashionable! All orders are custom made, just for you :) -Jasper" To order, email Jasper at survivalbyjasper@gmail.com Connect with Jasper on: Instagram Facebook
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Kai & Jo talk to Mandy & Kate from Too Peas Podcast
All things ‘Neurospicy' We were both so excited to chat with Mandy & Kate from the Too Peas Podcast & it’s now up eek!Now we have to brave listening lol... am I the only one that finds it hard to listen to themselves?Spoiler alert... We have mentioned in the podcast a discount surprise which is valid till midnight on the 20th October. If you'd like to listen, click the link below! LISTEN NOW 🎧 Was such a privilege to chat with these two incredible women. Kai and I both really enjoyed it :) - Jo from Kaiko Fidgets
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Jo on the Touched Out Podcast
Jo chats with Carter on the Touched Out Podcast! It was such an honour to chat with this amazing human on the Touched Out Podcast. So much ‘messy’ AuADHD banter! To be honest, I forgot we were recording, such a pleasure to share space and time with Carter. If interested in hearing our chat here is the link! Would be awesome if you could share/forward it to anyone who you feel might find it relatable. LISTEN NOW 🎧 Carter wearing our silkworm fidget – his staple go-to… Would love you to give him a shoutout and follow too - such an authentic voice and an amazing human! - Jo from Kaiko Fidgets
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Neurodiversity is a Superpower
How Entrepreneurship Empowers Minds and Creates Opportunities An amazing program helping school aged kids foster Entrepreneurship! What’s not to love! Introducing First Pivot: Nurturing Tomorrow's Empathetic Entrepreneurs by Jim from First Pivot. There is a saying that says, "You can't be what you can't see." When we heard about Kai's remarkable entrepreneurial journey, we knew instantly that students needed to see and hear this inspiring story. At First Pivot, our mission is to inspire and educate the next generation of entrepreneurs. We firmly believe that entrepreneurship underpinned with empathy can provide a positive change on a global scale. Our programs extend to both primary and secondary schools throughout Australia. We’ve partnered with Kai and Kaiko Fidgets to allow students to learn and earn about entrepreneurship by opening up their own fidget spinner businesses. Unveiling the Neurodiverse Thread What do luminaries like Microsoft's founder Bill Gates, real estate magnate Barbara Corcoran, financial services company founder Charles Schwab, renowned fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger, David Neeleman, the founder of JetBlue airlines, Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Airlines, Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA, and Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, all have in common? The answer: neurodiversity. Entrepreneurship offers a range of benefits that align particularly well with the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodiverse individuals. Neurodivergent individuals often possess a high degree of creativity, innovative thinking and hyperfocus. Entrepreneurship allows them to channel this creativity and focus into developing unique solutions to problems. It goes beyond merely teaching business operations. It involves fostering creative thinking and cultivating a robust sense of self-value and responsibility. It is a mindset and a skillset. To quote Alexander Den Heijer, "When a flower fails to blossom, you adjust the environment it grows in, not the flower itself." Entrepreneurship provides neurodivergent individuals the opportunity to contribute their perspectives to the world of business and innovation. It is a platform where their strengths can shine and allow them to make a significant impact on their own terms. We are committed to supporting and guiding neurodivergent students on this incredible journey of entrepreneurship. To learn more about their programs and how they might benefit your child, please contact Jim via: Email: jim@firstpivot.com.au Phone: 0423 840 540 Web: www.firstpivot.com.au
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