Orbi-Loops have become a sensation in homes nationwide following a viral TikTok video showcasing the resemblance it makes to the sound of fire cackling. This beloved fidget toy, composed of interconnected beaded rings, has captivated audiences everywhere. Discover the details about these tumble-able toys and explore the potential benefits for adults, children, and seniors.
What Are Orbi-Loop Toys?
Crafted from gorgeous beads, Orbi-Loop fidget toys consist of interconnected beaded rings that can tumble. These sensory gadgets are uncomplicated and enjoyable to engage with. Studies suggest that they could alleviate stress while enhancing focus and refining fine motor control.
Who Invented Orbi-Loops?
While these toys have become ubiquitous, the origins of Orbi-Loops trace back to Cyrus Bagalay, a maker of handcrafted ornaments, jewelry, and toys, including his well known Meraki Spheres; a revision of the classic 3D wire mandala.
The inception of Orbi-Loops dates back to 2021, where Cyrus discovered the bliss that comes from the sound of beads falling onto the floor. Cyrus has SSD (single-sided deafness), and because he wears a hearing aid, the sound of those beads is exemplified more than a regular person would hear. This intense cackling of beads, was so incredible soothing to him, that he wanted to develop a tool that mimicked that sensation, hence Orbi-Loops was formed.
Cyrus crafts each and every piece he makes, whether it is Meraki Sphere or Orbi-Loops right from his home studio. His passion for fidgety objects, translates to the quality and craftsmanship of his work.
What Makes Orbi-Loops a sensation?
The surge in popularity for this toy can be directly attributed to its featured role in a viral TikTok video. The clip showcases Cyrus using it as a nifty pocket carry while on the go, or as a desk fidget while at work in an office. This highlights the versatility of this little device, and how one can bring along something that soothes everywhere, and anywhere. Cyrus describes it as your car keys and how often people tend to juggle their car keys around. It's soothing, hearing the jungle, and feeling the weight of the metal as you toss it in your hands. Orbi-Loops is designed exactly for that purpose, not to mention it makes a wonderfully stylish pendant as well!
What is the Recommended Age for Orbi-Loops?
While Orbi-Loops are designed for ages 5 and above, alternative fidget toys from different companies may target older age groups. Given that Orbi-Loops are typically crafted from glass beads, they are generally recommended for an older audience due to the nature of it's construction of small pieces.
"As with any toy, it's crucial to ensure there are no rough edges that could break off and inadvertently be swallowed," | "In instances where toys, including those with potential choking hazards like small parts, could pose a risk, we advise against using such items for children under 5 years of age."
Advantages of Orbi-Loops Fidget Toys
The primary advantage of engaging with Orbi-Loops lies in the sheer delight that children (or even adults) experience when cackling the beads back and forth. Nevertheless, research indicates that fidget toys may offer additional benefits, such as stress relief and enhancements in focus and fine motor control, as demonstrated in a study on the impact of fidget spinners on fine motor control (Scientific Reports, 2018). Additionally, another study suggests that fidget toys can assist students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in disregarding distractions.
Dr. Fontein concurs that fidget toys contribute to self-regulation and learning. "The advantages of toys like Orbi-Loops encompass sensory engagement, enabling many children to concentrate better on academic tasks or other activities requiring focus," she elaborates. "The repetitive motion of tumbling beaded rings back and forth can occupy their hands and keep their minds focused."
These toys may also deter children from engaging in habits like "sucking their fingers, biting their nails, twirling their hair, picking at their skin, or other self-injurious/stereotypic actions that are often soothing but can also be distracting," Dr. Fontein adds.
However, every child is unique, and while fidget toys may assist some in achieving a sense of calmness and improved engagement in school or other attention-demanding tasks, the same benefits may not be universally observed. Nevertheless, whether used as a delightful diversion, for stress alleviation, or shared among friends, it is evident that many children derive various advantages from these intertwined beaded ring fidget toys.
You can purchase Orbi-Loops directly from Meraki Sphere:
https://merakisphere.com/collections/all-products-orbi-loops
Alternatively, if you are an Etsy shopper, these are available here as well:
