Long lectures and study sessions can make me feel so antsy, but I’ve found that fidget tools can help ease that restlessness I get from staying focused for too long. Now that fidgets are available to loan at IKB, I can just hop on over to the help desk to borrow a fidget during those grueling times crunching for an exam.
Fidget Cubes
Most Versatile
Arguably the most iconic one of the bunch, this fidget offers a versatile sensory experience as each side has a different function. It includes a joystick, rolling ball, spinning gears, clicky switch, and five buttons. My favourite side is the slightly concave groove designed after a worry stone. It perfectly fits my thumb and rubbing that surface helps calm me down.
Hand Rollers
Staff Favourite
Sometimes I want a fidget toy that’s a little bit more fidget and a little less toy (although we love toys here–don’t get me wrong!), and this is perfect for those looking for something sleek and modern. The smooth silicone feels so satisfying to roll around in your hand. In fact, I remember all the other student staff here fighting over whose turn it was on the hand roller!
Magnetic Men
Editor’s Pick
These silly little guys are my personal favorite out of all the fidgets that we offer. They have a very satisfying click whenever the magnetic sides connect that I can do absentmindedly. Also, I love making new shapes with different combinations of attaching the men to each other, such as a ball, a long chain, or even a necklace!
Liquid Timers
Most Aesthetically-Pleasing
When I’m about to fall asleep during a Zoom lecture, taking a second to look at how satisfying and beautiful the bubbles are dripping down on these liquid timers is enough to wake me right up. Watching falling drops is also a very calming visual experience, and one turn is the perfect amount of time for a quick, relaxing break before going back to focusing on my work.
Reading Guide Strips
Most Functional
Sometimes all those class readings can blur into one giant bowl of word soup, and I find myself skipping words and lines. For those who struggle with comprehension and concentration as well, these reading guide strips are super useful for keeping your place in those long passages.
Pop-its
Most Popular on Social Media
Pop-its are a fun way to reduce stress by popping bubbles, similar to bubble wrap. These went semi-viral on social media sometime last year, and I always loved watching the videos of people popping them in a satisfying pattern. Since we have it here at IKB, I’m glad I can finally experience it myself too.
Now that you’ve seen my review, it’s time to try them out yourself! These sensory tools are available to borrow as toolkits at the help desk on the third floor of IKB. Which fidget are you most looking forward to using? Let us know in the comments below or in-person at the desk!
Gifs by CLC Peer Assistant Xelena Ilon
