Chapter 1
Ancient tools of touch
Chapter 2
The brain on fidgeting
Chapter 3
The modern toy revolution
Chapter 4
Fidgets in extreme environments
YOUR GOAL
Master of The world of fidget toys
Ch 2 · The brain on fidgeting
artiteacher The brain on fidgeting
Keep my hands busy, yeah! (to clear up my head!) / Get the dopamine flowing! (and focus instead!)
artiteacher Repetitive physical actions offer a predictable rhythm that calms an overactive nervous system.
artiteacher For individuals with ADHD or autism, sensory toys help filter out overwhelming background distractions.
Fun Fact
Brain chemistry: Fidgeting increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, the exact same chemicals targeted by ADHD focus medications.
Glossary
prefrontal cortex (noun)
The anterior part of the frontal lobe of the brain, highly developed in humans and crucial for cognitive behavior. Justin Fernandez led a study showing that small finger movements increase blood flow to this brain region.
The anterior part of the frontal lobe of the brain, highly developed in humans and crucial for cognitive behavior. Justin Fernandez led a study showing that small finger movements increase blood flow to this brain region.
Quiz
What part of the human nervous system is activated by repetitive fidgeting to help lower our heart rate?
Quiz
Which two chemicals does fidgeting release to mimic the effects of some focus medications?
Quiz
What is the scientific term for the brain's state of being insufficiently stimulated, which fidgeting helps fix?
Quiz
What type of physical action is most effective at triggering a calming parasympathetic response?
Quiz
Which neurotransmitter, crucial for attention and focus, is released in small amounts when we fidget?
Quiz
In cognitive science, what is the term for the main activity you are trying to focus on while fidgeting?
Quiz
Why do cognitive scientists recommend fidgets that do not require visual attention?
Quiz
For individuals with ADHD, what primary function do sensory fidget toys serve in a noisy room?