I’ll admit that social interactions can sometimes be overwhelming for me. As a therapist, I have a controlled environment that is often quiet, calm and predictable. In the real world, engaging in social gatherings and large crowds can be tough. The constant sensory input, emotional dynamics, and mental energy required to stay engaged can feel like a lot.
One of the most effective tools I’ve found for managing these situations is fidgeting. Fidget toys aren’t just for kids or for when I’m sitting at my desk; I carry them with me during social interactions to help me stay focused, calm, and connected. They’ve become a quiet, discreet way for me to self-regulate, so I can stay present without getting lost in distraction or sensory overload.
Here are the five fidget toys I rely on most when I’m out in the world, attending festivals, concerts, dinner parties, or catching up with friends:
1. Needoh Nice Cube
The Needoh Nice Cube is my go-to fidget for nearly every social situation. It’s a relatively small, squishy cube that fits perfectly in my hand. When I’m having a conversation or sitting in a meeting, I can hold it in my palm and squeeze it gently, giving my hands something to do while still staying engaged with the people around me. The soft texture and the gentle resistance provide the tactile feedback I need without being distracting to others.
It’s especially helpful during moments when I feel overwhelmed or overstimulated, as it gives me a way to regulate my sensory input in a subtle and quiet way. Plus, the Needoh Cube is small enough that I can carry it in my fanny pack, making it the ideal fidget for social situations.
2. Magnetic Sliders
The Magnetic Sliders are another tool I carry with me during social situations. These small, sleek fidgets consist of two magnetic pieces that slide together and apart with a satisfying snap. When I need to redirect my focus during a conversation, I can quietly slide the magnets back and forth in my hand.
What I love about these is how discreet they are—no one even knows I’m using them. This makes them perfect for those times when I’d normally result in skin picking (my poor thumbs), at social gatherings and I need something to redirect my energy.. The rhythmic action is soothing, and the tactile feedback helps me stay focused and present.
3. Magnetic Fidget Rings Set
For something a little more subtle, I carry a set of Magnetic Fidget Rings. These small rings fit around my fingers, and the magnets inside them allow me to slide, spin, or stack them. I can rotate them around my fingers, combine them into different shapes, or just fidget with one ring at a time.
I love these because they give me a lot of options for movement, and they are very quiet, which is essential in social situations where I don’t want to draw attention to myself. Whether I’m sitting in a cafe with a friend, or at a concert, these rings provide just the right amount of sensory input to help me stay calm and engaged. They keep my hands busy so that my mind can stay focused on what’s happening around me, rather than getting lost in my thoughts or sensory distractions.
4. Ono Roller
The Ono Roller is another one I use when I’m out socializing or attending events. It’s a small, smooth roller that you can hold in your hand and gently move back and forth. It’s incredibly soothing, and the rolling motion provides a calming effect, especially when I’m feeling overwhelmed in social settings.
I often use it during small talk, when my mind might start to wander, or when I need a quick mental reset. The smooth, quiet motion of the roller helps me redirect my attention, and it’s subtle enough that no one notices I’m using it. The calming, tactile sensation also helps to regulate my emotions in more intense social situations, helping me manage any feelings of anxiety or overstimulation.
5. The Original Fidget Retro Controller
The Original Fidget Retro Controller is my fun, interactive tool. It looks like an old-school gaming controller, complete with buttons, switches, and dials that you can press, flip, and rotate. When I’m at a social event, talking to multiple people, or navigating a fast-paced environment, I use this controller to keep my hands engaged without getting distracted by the overwhelming sensory input.
I love the variety of tactile actions it offers—there’s something incredibly satisfying about flipping the switches or pressing the buttons. The fidget controller helps me stay grounded and keeps me from feeling scattered or disengaged in busy environments. Plus, it’s a conversation starter! People are always curious about it, which makes it a fun way to connect with others, especially in more relaxed social settings.