Make Your Own Fidgets (with Math)

Everyone knows fidgets can be the best—or worst!—way to keep yourself focused in a classroom setting. Keeping your fingers moving can be a great way to stay concentrated, but many fidgets make loud noises or come in bright colors or large sizes. Often, fidgets end up causing distractions, rather than preventing them. Plus, lots of fidgets can be very expensive! So, is there a way to fidget without distracting ourselves, distracting others, or spending lots of money? There sure is, and it involves math,

In this fun video, mathematician Victoria Hart introduces us to the hexaflexagon, a fun fidget made from a folded strip of paper, made into the shape of a hexagon. You can make a hexaflexagon with nothing but notebook paper, scissors, and tape or a glue stick. You can make it any size you like, color it whatever way you want, and slip it into your pocket whenever you don't need it. It's silent, free, and tons of fun—perfect to keep you focused in your next math class.