Understanding Fidgeting and Stimming: Adaïr Jewelry's Support for ADHD and Autism

Decoding Fidgeting and Stimming

What is Fidgeting? A Closer Look

At its core, fidgeting is an unconscious behavior characterized by small, repetitive movements typically made with the hands or feet. This behavior often arises as a natural response to feelings of boredom or stress. Common manifestations of fidgeting include behaviors like playing with a pen, twirling hair, or drumming fingers on a table.

Fidgeting is a phenomenon that can occur in anyone, though it is particularly noted in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). In such cases, fidgeting acts as a coping mechanism to manage surplus energy or as a strategy to maintain focus during activities that require sustained attention.

Stimming Explained: Its Importance in Autism and ADHD

Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, is the deliberate engagement in specific, repetitive movements or sounds. Stimming
is generally more conspicuous and repetitive than fidgeting and
is a notable behavior in neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Although everyone may engage in stimming behaviors to a certain extent, these behaviors often manifest more prominently in
individuals with autism, characterized by unconventional, intense, or highly repetitive motions. Stimming in autism encompasses a broader range of actions beyond common fidgeting practices, including but not limited to hand-flapping, rocking back and forth, spinning objects, echoing sounds or phrases, snapping rubber bands, or twirling strings.

The Benefits of Fidgeting and Stimming

How Fidgeting and Stimming Aid in Concentration and Calm

Once dismissed as mere distractions or nervous habits, repetitive movements are now recognized for their pivotal role in enhancing concentration and inducing a state of calm, particularly among individuals with ADHD, autism, and anxiety disorder.

Whether it involves subtle body movements or engaging with dedicated objects, fidgeting can actually aid in concentration and promote a sense of calm. These repetitive movements or actions provide sensory input that helps regulate arousal levels, allowing individuals to better focus on tasks at hand.

While stimming may appear atypical to some, it serves as a mechanism for self-soothing and self-regulation, helping individuals manage overwhelming sensory experiences or emotional distress.

By acknowledging and valuing the significance of fidgeting and stimming, we can cultivate more accepting and empowering environments. Such an approach enables individuals to leverage these innate coping strategies effectively, leading to heightened focus and emotional stability.

Scientific Insights: The Positive Effects on ADHD and Autism

For those with ADHD, focusing on tasks requiring continuous attention poses a considerable challenge. Studies have shown that fidgeting benefits people with ADHD by offering a gentle sensory stimulus. This stimulus engages brain areas responsible for maintaining focus, thus improving concentration and cognitive performance. Additionally, fidgeting serves as an outlet for managing the prevalent high energy and restlessness, promoting extended periods of task engagement.

Stimming is crucial for those with autism, aiding in both sensory regulation and emotional control. Whether overly sensitive or under-responsive to sensory stimuli like light, sound, and touch, individuals on the spectrum use stimming to manage sensory input and maintain emotional balance. Beyond sensory benefits, stimming also serves as a key non-verbal communication tool, allowing those who are non-speaking or minimally verbal to express emotions like joy, stress, or excitement, thus providing a glimpse into their internal experiences.

It's important to recognize that stimming, when not harmful or excessively disruptive, should not be discouraged in autistic individuals.

Adaïr Jewelry: Fostering Awareness and Support

Introducing Adaïr’s Event with Autisme Suisse Romande

At Adaïr Jewelry, our mission is to empower individuals distracted and stressed by their daily environment to find peace and renewed energy within themselves through our jewelry designed for play. Our pieces are not only visually stunning but also discreet and readily available, making them ideal fidget tools for adults.

In a recent study conducted in December 2023 involving 600 participants, we discovered that individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD and ADHD, those with Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as individuals with anxiety-related conditions like OCD and BFRB’s, exhibit a higher propensity for fidgeting and stimming behaviors. Surprisingly, over 70% of these individuals reported engaging in fidgeting activities on a daily basis, against 39% of the total population.

This revelation fueled our desire to delve deeper into the unique needs and preferences of these individuals regarding products like ours. With this goal in mind, we initiated a partnership with an organization called Autisme Suisse Romande, which is an association based in the French-speaking part of Switzerland and focuses on supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families through advocacy, education, and resources.

This collaboration has allowed us to establish a direct engagement opportunity, where members of this community were able to experience our jewelry prototypes and provide their feedback. By co-creating with individuals on the autism spectrum, we ensure that our new collection addresses their unique needs and preferences, resulting in fidget jewelry that is not only functional but also truly resonates with their experiences and requirements.

Adair brain teaser necklace in rose gold with purple bubbly background

How Jewelry Can Be a Tool for Fidgeting and Stimming

You might wonder how jewelry relates to fidgeting or stimming. Similar to fidget toys like spinners or stress balls, thoughtfully crafted jewelry pieces can provide tactile stimulation or the chance for repetitive movements, aiding people in need calming anxiety, enhancing concentration, and facilitating emotional regulation.

For people on the autism spectrum, the act of spinning a ring or moving a pendant can help in self-regulation during moments of sensory overload or when navigating challenging social environments. The discreet nature of fidget jewelry makes them a socially acceptable option for stimming, allowing individuals to engage in self-soothing behavior without drawing unwanted attention.

Unlike traditional fidget toys, which one might forget to carry, fidget jewelry offers an on-demand solution that is always accessible because it is worn. This ensures that individuals can benefit from its soothing effects at any time without the need to remember to bring an additional item with them.

Adaïr’s Fidget Jewelry: Design and Purpose

Regrettably, the current market for fidget jewelry leaves much to be desired, frequently lacking in both quality and aesthetic appeal for daily adult wear.

At Adaïr, we aim to redefine this niche, crafting playful yet sophisticated jewelry that embodies Swiss Made excellence. We prioritize ethically sourced, high-quality materials, including Fairtrade Max Havelaar 18-carat gold and conflict-free lab-grown diamonds, to ensure our pieces are not only beautiful but also responsible choices. Learn more: link.

Our inaugural Collection A introduces an innovative brainteaser necklace, designed with two interlocking pendants that can be unlocked through a gentle, engaging interaction. This distinctive design offers a soothing movement, perfect for easing stress and dispelling excess energy. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this necklace serves as the ultimate ally in reducing sensory and emotional overload, making it a thoughtful addition to any daily routine.

Empowering Individuals with ADHD and Autism

Empowering individuals with ADHD or autism to freely express themselves is at the heart of our mission, recognizing stimming and fidgeting as essential coping mechanisms rather than behaviors to be hidden. Our discreet, on-demand jewelry is designed to honor these needs, offering both a stylish accessory and a functional tool to manage sensory challenges discreetly.

Crafted with care, each piece incorporates elements like spinning, twisting, or soft textures, allowing for subtle, comforting movements. This approach not only aids focus and sensory regulation but also champions the importance of being present, grounded in the moment through small, mindful actions.

Our jewelry goes beyond mere aesthetics, embodying a shift towards inclusivity and understanding. It’s a wearable affirmation of the importance of neurodiverse expressions, encouraging a societal embrace of these natural tendencies.

Our Collaboration with Autisme Suisse Romande

Highlighting the Event: Goals and Outcomes

On March 20th, we had the pleasure of joining forces with Autisme Suisse Romande for an event in the city of Lausanne, nestled in the heart of French-speaking Switzerland. This remarkable collaboration led us to the doors of “Galerie Syndrome Artistique” a pioneering art gallery in Europe dedicated exclusively to showcasing the work of autistic artists. Autisme Suisse Romande graciously hosted us, offering a unique opportunity to present our jewelry collection to their vibrant community.

Our foremost goal for this event was evident: to co-create with the intended beneficiaries by understanding their preferences and gathering feedback on the benefits and design of our products.

During the event, the excitement and keen interest in our jewelry collections were palpable. Among the invaluable insights shared, one stood out distinctly: each individual's sensory preferences are unique, highlighting the necessity for personalized options in the movement and texture of our jewelry. This feedback acted as a direct link to their needs and desires, shining a light on how we can further refine and personalize our designs.

Adaïr’s Commitment to the Community

At Adaïr, our engagement with the community goes beyond mere interaction; it’s a deep commitment to genuinely comprehend the unique needs and preferences of those we serve. This dedication drives us to continuously refine and perfect our jewelry, guaranteeing that each piece isn’t just an accessory, but a true companion that offers comfort, empowerment, and a sense of belonging.

By fostering an inclusive environment and prioritizing feedback, we ensure that our creations resonate with and uplift everyone who chooses Adaïr, making every moment they’re worn special and supportive.

Choosing the Right Fidget Jewelry

Selecting Adaïr’s Fidget Jewelry

If you find yourself resonating with the behaviors of fidgeting and/or stimming mentioned earlier, seeking a means to alleviate stress, aiming to enhance your focus and productivity, or simply in pursuit of uniquely designed jewelry for playful interaction, Adaïr Jewelry presents the ideal discreet and on-demand solution for daily use.

Discover the perfect fidget jewelry in our Collection A, where a brain teaser necklace awaits to engage your senses. Whether you crave tactile stimulation, sensory delight from diamonds, or the soothing sound of a moving chain, Adaïr has you covered. Contact us today to get advice and choose the perfect piece tailored to your need.

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for updates on new collections and innovative stimming/fidgeting solutions.

Collection A yellow gold brain teaser necklace S, ethical 18k gold and lab-grown diamond, woman play with hands

Integrating Fidget Jewelry into Daily Life for ADHD and Autism

Incorporating fidget jewelry into daily life offers a seamless and stylish solution for individuals with ADHD and autism, blending functionality with style. Our innovative pieces provide a discreet way to satisfy the need for sensory. stimulation, helping to improve concentration and reduce anxiety throughout the day. Whether in meetings, at school, or in social settings, fidget jewelry serves as a subtle companion, enabling those with ADHD and autism to navigate their environments more comfortably and confidently.

With designs that are as elegant as they are practical, Adaïr Jewelry not only supports sensory needs but also adds a touch of personal style, making it a valuable addition to anyone's daily routine.

Adaïr’s Ongoing Mission for Inclusivity

Future Initiatives and Continued Support for ADHD and Autism

Looking ahead, Adaïr is eager to embark on new initiatives and endeavors that further support individuals with ADHD and autism. From developing innovative fidget jewelry designs to partnering with advocacy organizations and hosting events, we are committed to expanding our impact and fostering a more inclusive world.

Through ongoing research, education, and advocacy, we aim to empower and uplift those within the ADHD and autism communities, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive. Stay tuned for updates on our future initiatives as we continue our journey towards greater inclusivity and understanding.

Joining Hands with Adaïr in Supporting Neurodiversity

At Adaïr, we're committed to the idea that everyone deserves to experience inner peace.

When you become part of our community, you're not just supporting a brand; you're championing a cause that fosters understanding, acceptance, and empowerment for those with neurodiverse conditions, including ADHD and autism.

We warmly invite you to join us on this meaningful path. Whether by purchasing our unique fidget jewelry, participating in our events, or helping spread awareness about neurodiversity, your involvement is invaluable.

Image sources:

1. Spinner Top Banner: Unsplash, Drew Beamer: image link

2. Hand crushing image: Unsplash, Girogio Trovato: image link

3. Calm woman image: Unsplash, Fleur Kaan: image link

4. Working woman playing with hand spinner: Image by pressfoto on Freepik