Dear Parents and Carers
I would like to take this opportunity to clarify our approach to the use of fidget toys in school.
Recently, we have seen a significant increase in children bringing a variety of fidget items and toys into school. Whilst these items are often brought with good intentions, we would like to remind families that fidget toys are not toys to be played with during lessons and, in most cases, they do not support learning.
Research and educational experience show that fidget items can often divide a child’s attention rather than improve it. Whilst there are some very specific circumstances where a carefully selected sensory tool may support a child’s engagement, these situations are relatively uncommon and should be considered on an individual basis. More frequently, fidget toys become a distraction to the child using them and to those around them, reducing learning time and concentration.
We are increasingly finding that staff need to ask children to put these items away in their bags during the school day. Unfortunately, this can interrupt learning, lead to unnecessary discussions during lesson time, and can be upsetting for children who have brought the items in expecting to use them.
To ensure consistency across the school and to minimise disruptions to learning, please do not send your child into school with fidget toys or other toys unless you have had a conversation with Mrs Billington and it has been agreed that a specific fidget tool is the most appropriate support for an identified need. In these cases, the item will be carefully matched to the need your child is presenting with and monitored to ensure it is having a positive impact on their engagement and learning.
We greatly appreciate your support in helping us maintain a calm, focused learning environment for all children. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s sensory or attention needs, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Billington.
Thank you for your continued support.
Yours faithfully
Mrs R Billington
SENDCO
