DiscoverBrains On! Science podcast for kidsDo fidget toys really help people focus?
Do fidget toys really help people focus?

Do fidget toys really help people focus?

Update: 2025-10-212
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Fidget toys are everywhere. There are ones you can squeeze, or click, or spin. Others are puzzles or have cool textures to touch. Some classrooms even have fidget toys for students, but do they help kids concentrate or are they just a distraction? Molly and co-host Penelope team up with an unconventional band to learn why we fidget in the first place.

Plus, neuroscientist Dr. Julie Schweitzer, from the UC Davis MIND Institute, answers questions about the science of fidget toys.

All that plus a brand new Mystery Sound and peek into what's happening at the brand new Brains On Headquarters!

Want to support the show? Head to smartypass.org to subscribe or donate!

Click here for a transcript of this episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Do fidget toys really help people focus?

Do fidget toys really help people focus?

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