Fidgeting used to be a problem teachers tried to solve. These days, though, we recognize that you don’t need to be completely still in order to learn, and constructive fidgeting actually helps many people focus. You can certainly buy cool and useful fidget gadgets, but the cost can add up if you want enough for a whole class.
That’s why we love these DIY fidgets! Make them yourself, or use them as hands-on class projects for students to make their own. Either way, your students will love them, and so will your wallet. Bonus: They make for some great inexpensive gift ideas for the holidays!
(Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!)
1. Zipper Bracelet
These DIY fidget zippers also make a fashion statement! Wear them when your hands are busy, and take them off to fidget as needed.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Moms & Crafters
2. Fidget Sticks
Wood craft sticks, plastic beads, and pipe cleaners are all cheap when you buy them in bulk. Find a few rolls of pretty washi tape, and you’re all set to make these easy DIY fidgets!
Get the supplies:
Learn more: DIY Fidget Sticks/YouTube
3. Bead Snakes
Kids will enjoy the process of making these colorful “snakes,” personalizing the colors and patterns with cords and multicolor pony beads . Once they’re done, they can use them to fidget to their heart’s content!
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Super Mom Hacks
4. Fidget Putty
Stress putty combines all the fun of slime with the soothing nature of fidgets. Make your own and store it in small tins for a quiet fidget option for your classroom.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Little Bins for Little Hands
5. Wearable Marble Maze
If you’re handy with a sewing machine, you’ll love these fidget bracelets! The secret? There’s a built-in marble maze hidden inside. So cool!
Get the supplies:
Learn more: de Jong Dream House
6. Fidget Bands for Chairs
One of the best things about fidget bands is that they’re pretty much silent but they are perfect for kids who can’t sit still. Cut up old t-shirts (or any cheap fabric) that still have a bit of stretch left to them, braid them together, and sew them into a loop. You can make enough for your entire classroom for pretty much nothing!
Get the supplies:
Learn more: T-Shirt Chair Fidgets/YouTube
7. Fidget Pencil Toppers
Turn pencils into all-in-one tools by adding DIY fidgets. Just pick up some pony beads, pipe cleaners, and rubber bands.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: The OT Toolbox
8. DIY Fidget Spinners
Remember when fidget spinners were all the rage? They’ve gone from fad to classroom tool now, but they can be pretty pricey. Fortunately, you can make your own from cardstock and coins.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Red Ted Art
9. Nut and Bolt Fidget Toy
You’ll need one bolt with two matching nuts for each of these DIY fidgets. Spin one nut onto the bolt about halfway. Then, use hot glue to attach the second nut at the very bottom of the bolt. Now kids can spin the one in the middle when they need to fidget, with no worries about having it come loose and getting lost.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: You Clever Monkey
10. Paper Infinity Cube
Infinity cubes are so addictive! With some patience and precision, you can fold one from colorful paper squares. Watch the video and make a few by yourself to get the hang of it. Then try this as a classroom project so kids can make their own.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Paper Infinity Cube/YouTube
11. Dice Infinity Cube
If you’re looking for an infinity cube that’s a bit more sturdy, try this one! Dice are affordable, easy to make with regular tape, and they look cool.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Dice Infinity Cube/YouTube
12. Fidget Chain Toy
String beads onto key rings, then turn the rings into a chain. Try hanging one from your water bottle to remind you to drink more often too!
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Party Through the Air
13. CD and Marble Top
If you’ve still got a box of old CDs hanging around, use them to make these DIY fidgets with a marble. They might be a little big for kids to use during class, but they’re a nice addition to your calm-down kit or corner.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Meaningful Mama
14. Perler Bead Fidget Toy
You can make a whole bin of these fidgets for just pennies! All you need are Perler beads and jumbo paperclips.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Sensibly Sara
15. Shoelace and Beads Fidget Toy
DIY fidgets don’t get any easier than this! String colorful beads onto shoelace string, knotted at each end. These also make really fun tools for teaching kids to segment phonemes.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Marvelous Multiagers
16. LEGO Fidget Spinner
Every kid loves the chance to build with LEGO! Find sets with round plates and axle pieces (like the ones we list below). Try turning this into a STEM challenge by providing the necessary pieces and asking kids to figure out how to construct one on their own.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls
17. Pop Tab Fidget Toy
Here’s another super easy DIY fidget option. Save pop tops from soda cans and feed them onto a key ring or binder ring. Kids can fidget with one hand while the other is clicking a mouse or flipping pages.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: STEAMsational
18. DIY Stress Ball
These easy-squeezy DIY fidgets are fun to make and even more fun to play with! Fill balloons with a mixture of baking soda and hair conditioner, then decorate however you like.
Get the supplies:
Learn more: DIY Stress Balls
What are your favorite classroom fidgets? Come share on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.
Plus, check out great ideas for your classroom calm-down kit.
