Regardless of age, anxiety takes us away from the present moment and into a place of the scary unknown. However, toys have the magical ability to bring children back into the present and as a consequence, calm them down.

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Here are our top five picks of toys we love:

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1. Pop it fidget toys

You’ve probably seen these toys in various animal shapes that are filled with squashable bubbles that children can pop before they rise again. Both from a sensory perspective and the repeatability, this toy helps thousands of children re-centre themselves.

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2. Putty/Play-dough

Not only is it the most affordable of the bunch, but from this is a great way for children to focus on using their hands to shape things.

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3. Fidget spinner

Okay, most of us find these pesky things annoying but for our kids they can be a life saver as they require a lot of concentration both from a proprioception perspective and mentally.

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4. A weighted lap pad or toy

Similar to a weighted blanket, these heavy toys allow kids to have the comfort of a stuffed toy whilst also getting the relaxing weight calming down.

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5. Rocking egg chair

Super easy to store, this is a great way for kids that rock back and forth in moments of anxiety to find a safe space to do it.

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