fidg·et /ˈfijit/

noun: fidget; plural noun: fidgets

1. a quick, small movement, typically a repeated one, caused by nervousness or impatience.

Background: Fidgeting itself has been around for ages. Humans are hard-wired for self-regulation enacted through tangible, tactile sensory experiences.These mind-body mechanisms are initiated with specific objects with at least two key qualities: a distinct tactile experience and an ease in repeating that stimulation (Dr. Michael Karlesky, UC Santa Cruz). 

Prompt: As a one day exercise, you will work in pairs to prototype fidget devices for children. Your prototypes should consider the following goals:

• Provide children with early tactile learning experiences, enhancing mind hand coordination
• Promote acute muscular mobility through repetitive motion and blood circulation
• Allow opportunities for individual and collaborative movement and game 
• Disperse nervous energy or anxiety 
• Design portable, compact hand toy that can be carried everywhere conveniently

Instructions:

1. Research up to 2 precedents that open up more options to reconsider a tactile fidget toy.
2. Sketch out 3 different ideas for your prototypes, keeping in mind the prompt goals.
3. Get feedback from your peers and coaches before jumping into low-fidelity prototyping.
4. If you have time, iterate on your designs to hone in on specific elements that can enhance the current model.
5. Document all your work (including precedents and sketches) and upload to the Response tab of this assignment by EOD.