We all have those students that are quite fidgety or energetic, which can impact their concentration and exhaust us if we aren't prepared. We want to help them make academic gains. Here are some ways I manage these students that I hope you find helpful.
1. Fiddle/Fidget Toys
This is something we've all heard of and probably used. I have a basket of fiddle toys for students placed right as they walk in and the students know they can grab if they need them. A few of my middle schoolers will get up and grab something when the self-identify they need it and it makes my heart burst with joy! Here are some of the things in my fiddle toy bin: rubber balls, koosh balls, velcro, magnetic monkeys, and a Tangle. Never spend too much of your own money here- all things I either got for free or in dollar bags at a local thrift store.
 |
| Tangle Fidget from Tangle Creations |
2. Break Schedule
I made this Get Up and Move and Get Up and Groove Break Schedules last year for some of my super energetic students and younger kids. They love it! And it helps them stay on task. You can purchase it at my TpT store. This product gives you TWO break schedules that have visuals and descriptions of what the student should do for each picture. You can have them get up and move/groove every 5 minutes, or every 10 minutes- it's up to you!
3. Brain Break with Cranium
My older students are motivated by this fun task! I reserve the last two minutes of their sessions for one Brain Break from this Cranium creation. Each mini-game only lasts about 1-2 minutes and the students really enjoy it.
 |
| Hasbro's Cranium Brain Breaks |
This is something I do once the school year has been in session for a while and the students need a change of pace. I like to get out of my room and walk the building. We'll walk a hallway, work for a bit, and then walk another part of the hallway, and then work a bit. The students love it because it's a big change than sitting in a classroom. The entire time we're walking- I have something I'm either teaching or a pre-planned visual.
5. Music
I cannot tell you how much this has helped some of my students. Not all, but definitely some. Something about the beat is soothing. I play this YouTube video, though there are lots of options on YouTube and beyond:
Liquid Drum and Bass Mix #1 from EnjoyStudying on YouTube
6. Exercise Ball as a chair or a textured seat cushion
This allows students to be constantly in motion in a more controlled way.
 |
| Seat Cushion with texture |
 |
| Stability Balls |
7. A banded chair bottom
 |
| Exercise band for legs by National Autism Resources |
I know this might seem obvious, but planning ahead is very important. You need to have a game plan to keep these super energetic students engaged. Whether it's making sure they always have something to manipulate or an activity that gets them moving. It will be more enjoyable for all if you have thought ahead.
9. Sticker/Incentive Charts
These are for those students who just need something a little extra to keep them motivated. Always try to start working with students without an external motivator, but if they need it - they need it. Try to fade it out over time to see if they can move forward without it. Sometimes all students need is a reminder, "You need to work hard to earn a sticker today." Or the ol' faithful, "We might not have time for sticker charts today if we can't finish this lesson."
The stickers and sticker charts I have on hand I purchased from The Dollar Tree. Once it's full they get a pencil and to pick one special treat (usually different kinds of trinkets I've picked up from clearance or dollar stores for cheap). I have also seen SLPs that get coupons to hand out that are donated from restaurants, like from Subway to give out a free kid size sub-sandwich.
 |
| Teaching Tree Incentive Charts with Stickers from Dollar Tree |
This is where you put half of a Velcro strip on the student's desk. They can rub it to get that sensory input.
I know it can be hard, but it's also super important to remember patience with these students! Always do your best to find your compassion and try to respond to the students with love. They are not being highly mobile to annoy us, but it's something different in their bodies. We need to find the key that unlocks their individual and special ability to best learn. It is always super important to plan and prepare yourself mentally before working with these students. This alone can increase your patience.
And remember- it's always ok to take a second to take a deep breath!
Please use the comment section to add anymore that might help. I love learning more ways to help students stay focused!
Joyfully,
