In 2018 the Ladies Ministry of LifeSpring Community Church made 15 lap quilts and gave them to residents of a memory care unit in a local nursing home. This outreach project was one of many the group had done, and although the response was positive, it was never intended to be an ongoing project or to become a ministry of its own.

However, for some of us, the fidget quilt idea just would not go away. Could something so simple really help with dementia? What if we made more? Would there be a need in for the quilts in the community?

We found that fidget lap quilts with embellishments do provide comfort and joy to adults with moderate to severe dementia. Surprisingly, we also found that fidget quilts can be used for infants and children with autism spectrum disorders and/or special needs. For both groups, the lap quilts provide tactile and sensory stimulation, decrease anxiety, stress, restlessness and frustration, help to develop and/or maintain fine motor coordination, and enhance sleep quality in all age groups.

Next, we called individuals, organizations and facilities to determine if there was need or a desire for fidget quilts in our community.  The response was overwhelmingly yes – for both adults and children. It was clear that there would be no problem finding homes for the completed quilts.

The Fidget Circle Ministry was established in the Fall of 2018. As of September 2022, a core group of 6-8 women of all ages have made, and given away, 700+ quilts to individuals, organizations and/or facilities. On request, personalized quilts are made for any age (birth to 90+), gender and/or developmental need. Although donations are gratefully accepted, there is never a charge for Fidget Circle quilts.

Meetings of the Fidget Circle Ministry are held the second Wednesday of every month at 10AM at LifeSpring Community Church in Valley City, Ohio. Meetings are open to anyone with elementary sewing skills and a desire to make a difference in someone’s life. Materials and embellishments are available, as well as fidget quilt kits for beginners. Feel free to contact us for additional information.