Tapestry of Faith: World of Wonder: A Program on the Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism for Grades K-1

Leader Resource 1: Fidget Basket

Part of World of Wonder

A fidget basket is a simple, inexpensive way to include and welcome children who find it difficult to sit still or who learn better while moving.

Provide a basket for fidget objects. Fill it with pipe cleaners, Wiki Stix (TM), Tangles (TM), and other quiet manipulatives.

When you introduce the fidget object basket to the group, begin by saying that some people learn best when their hands are busy. Give an example such as an adult who knits while listening to a radio program or doodles during a meeting or class. Point out the fidget object basket. Tell the children they may quietly help themselves to items to keep their hands busy if this helps them to listen. Tell the children the fidget object basket will be put away if the items become a distraction from the story or any other group activity.

You can make the basket available for the duration of the session, or bring the basket out only during activities, such as listening to a story, that require children to sit still and listen for a significant period of time.