Supporting Focus and Emotional Regulation in the Classroom
Creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment is essential for helping all students thrive, especially those with sensory processing challenges, or ADHDer students, or autistic students. Sensory tools are becoming an invaluable resource in schools, empowering students to focus, self-regulate, and manage emotions effectively. In Australia, Kaiko Fidgets offers a trusted range of high-quality sensory tools designed to meet the unique needs of students and educators alike. With their co-founder, Jo, an experienced Occupational Therapist, available to provide expert advice, Kaiko Fidgets is committed to supporting schools in fostering inclusive education.
Why Schools Are Turning to Sensory Tools
Classrooms are dynamic and often high-energy environments that can be overwhelming for students with sensory needs. For some, the challenge lies in filtering out distractions, while others may struggle with restlessness or anxiety. Sensory tools address these challenges by offering tactile, movement-based, or visual input that helps students self-regulate, improving focus and engagement.
When thoughtfully integrated into the classroom, sensory tools benefit not only individual students but also the broader learning environment by reducing disruptions and creating a calmer, more inclusive space.
Supporting Students with ADHD in Australian Schools: The Role of Sensory Tools
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions affecting students in Australian schools today. It is estimated that between 5% to 7% of school-aged children are diagnosed with ADHD, meaning that in every classroom, there are likely to be at least one or two students navigating challenges related to focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. For educators, creating an environment that accommodates these students while supporting their peers is key to fostering a productive and inclusive classroom. Sensory tools have become an indispensable part of this effort, offering practical ways to manage the specific needs of students with ADHD.
The Challenges of ADHD in the Classroom
Students with ADHD often experience difficulty sitting still, paying attention for extended periods, or managing their emotions in the structured environment of a classroom. This can lead to frustration for both the student and their peers, as well as disruptions to the learning process. These students may struggle to retain instructions, complete tasks, or remain engaged in group activities, which can negatively impact their academic progress and confidence.
How Sensory Tools Can Help
Sensory tools are an effective way to support students with ADHD by offering tactile, movement-based, or oral sensory input that helps them self-regulate. For example:
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Improved Focus: Fidget tools like spikey rings or tactile bands help students redirect their excess energy into their hands, allowing their minds to focus better on the lesson at hand.
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Reduced Restlessness: Stretchable or squishy sensory tools offer a safe outlet for physical movement, helping students stay seated and attentive.
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Emotional Regulation: Sensory tools can provide calming input for students who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated, allowing them to re-engage with their peers and their work.
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Promoting Inclusivity: By giving students with ADHD tools to manage their unique needs, schools foster a sense of inclusion and reduce stigma, as these tools allow students to remain an integral part of classroom activities.
Empowering Teachers and Schools with Kaiko Fidgets
For teachers, having access to sensory tools makes classroom management easier and more effective. Kaiko Fidgets’ range of durable and discreet sensory tools is designed to integrate seamlessly into the classroom, helping students with ADHD without distracting others. Teachers can incorporate tools like the Wrist Spikey or metal fidgets into daily routines, whether for individual use or as part of a broader sensory strategy for the entire classroom.
Beyond the Classroom: Supporting Transitions and Break Times
Transitions, such as moving between subjects or classrooms, can be particularly difficult for students with ADHD. Sensory tools provide a grounding mechanism that helps these students manage changes in routine with less anxiety and distraction. Tools like chewable fidgets or tactile objects can also be used during break times, giving students an opportunity to reset before returning to their academic tasks.
Benefits of Sensory Tools in Schools
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Improved Focus: Fidgets and sensory tools help students channel their energy, making it easier to concentrate on lessons and tasks.
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Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Tools like squishies or tactile fidgets provide a calming outlet for managing frustration or overwhelm.
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Reduced Restlessness: Sensory tools give students an appropriate way to release nervous energy, reducing disruptive behaviours.
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Increased Participation: By addressing sensory needs, these tools enable students to engage more fully in classroom activities.
As Louisa M., a satisfied Kaiko Fidgets customer, notes, “Great addition to my sensory corner, loved it!”
Tailored Support for Schools
Kaiko Fidgets’ co-founder, Occupational Therapist Jo, works closely with schools to ensure the right sensory tools are selected for their unique student populations. Whether a school is creating a sensory corner, integrating tools into a special education program, or looking to empower individual students, Jo’s expertise ensures that educators have the guidance they need to make informed decisions.
By equipping classrooms with sensory tools, Australian schools can better support students with ADHD, fostering a learning environment where all students feel empowered to succeed. Sensory tools are not just an accommodation—they are a way to unlock potential and create opportunities for students to thrive in school and beyond.
Kaiko Fidgets: Sensory Solutions Tailored for Schools
Kaiko Fidgets offers an extensive range of sensory tools designed with durability, functionality, and inclusivity in mind. Their products are crafted to withstand frequent use in busy classrooms while meeting the diverse needs of students.
1. Metal Fidgets
Durable and easy to use, metal fidgets provide tactile stimulation that helps students stay grounded and focused during lessons.
2. Stretchable Tools and Squishies
Soft, pliable tools like stretchable bands and squishies offer calming sensory input, making them ideal for managing stress or restlessness.
3. Wearable Fidgets
Options like the Wrist Spikey allow students to carry their sensory tools discreetly, providing support without drawing attention.
4. Chewable Fidgets
For students who benefit from oral sensory input, Kaiko’s chewable fidgets are a safe and effective option.
Hannah W. shares her experience with Kaiko’s tools, saying, “I love the weight of it. And the squish is the perfect consistency – I can’t describe it.”
How Schools Can Use Sensory Tools
Sensory tools can be seamlessly integrated into classroom routines to support student well-being and engagement:
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Calm Corners: Create a sensory-friendly space in the classroom where students can use tools to self-regulate during stressful moments.
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Individual Use: Provide students with fidgets to help them stay focused during lessons or independent work.
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Group Activities: Incorporate sensory tools into group activities to make them more inclusive for students with sensory needs.
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Transitions: Use sensory tools to help students manage transitions between activities, reducing anxiety or restlessness.
Expert Support from an Occupational Therapist
Co-founder Jo, a qualified Occupational Therapist, is available to assist schools in selecting the right sensory tools for their specific needs. Whether it’s understanding how to use fidgets effectively in the classroom or tailoring a sensory-friendly strategy for a group of students, Jo brings her expertise to ensure schools have the best possible support.
Schools and educators are welcome to reach out directly with questions or to discuss their unique requirements. Kaiko Fidgets takes pride in offering personalised advice to help create inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Why Sensory Tools Are a Must for Inclusive Classrooms
Inclusive education is about ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. For students with sensory processing challenges, the right tools can make all the difference in feeling supported, understood, and engaged in their learning. Sensory tools empower these students to participate more fully, creating a classroom environment that values diversity and fosters success for all.
How to Place an Order for Your School
Kaiko Fidgets makes it easy for schools to access their range of high-quality sensory tools. Schools and organisations can place bulk orders or request customised advice to ensure they’re selecting the right tools for their students.
With an ABN of 91 660 147 302, Kaiko Fidgets trades as Kaiko Fidgets, My Sensory Store, and Metal Fidgets, ensuring a comprehensive offering for all sensory needs.
Why Schools Trust Kaiko Fidgets
Kaiko Fidgets is a trusted name in sensory tools for schools across Australia. Here’s why educators choose Kaiko:
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High-Quality Materials: Durable designs that stand up to frequent classroom use.
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Wide Range: From tactile fidgets to wearable tools, there’s something for every student’s sensory needs.
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Expert Support: Access to Occupational Therapist Jo for tailored advice.
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Commitment to Inclusion: Products are designed with empathy and practicality, supporting diverse learners.
Equip Your School with the Best Sensory Tools
If your school is looking for ways to support students with sensory needs, Kaiko Fidgets is here to help. Their thoughtfully designed tools provide practical solutions for focus, emotional regulation, and sensory engagement, creating a more inclusive classroom environment for all students.
Place your school or organisation’s order today: Kaiko School and Organisation Orders.
Empower your students with sensory tools that foster focus, calm, and inclusion—because every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.