Build a Sensory Fidget Toolkit

A zippered pencil case or small bag

A stress ball

A textured fidget ring or spinner

A strip of Velcro (both rough and soft sides)

Therapy putty or silly putty

A smooth stone

A piece of silky fabric

Lay out all the sensory items on a table.

Let your child explore each one — squeeze, stretch, rub, roll.

Talk about how each one feels: "That stone is cool and smooth. The Velcro is scratchy."

Ask them to choose their five favorites based on what feels best or helps them concentrate.

Place the chosen items in the toolkit bag.

Practice using each mindfully: slow squeezes, focused rolling, deliberate rubbing.

Discuss when the toolkit could help: homework time, car rides, moments of frustration.

This is a real self-regulation tool used by occupational therapists and school counselors.

Letting your child choose the items gives them ownership — they're more likely to actually use the toolkit.

Keep the toolkit in a consistent, accessible place so your child can grab it independently when needed.

Swap items in and out over time. Sensory preferences change, and novelty keeps the toolkit effective.

The Velcro strip is an underrated fidget — the scratchy sound and texture are deeply satisfying for some kids.