Have you ever been sitting in class and then…..BOOM! Someone’s squishy pops. Most of us have experienced the startling sound of the bubbles trapped in gel suddenly releasing air. Fidget toys called “NeeDohs” have been “popping” up in classrooms all over the world. The new craze is both exciting and frustrating at the same time. On the one hand, NeeDohs are harmless tools that actually help students focus and have fun. On the other hand, however, are these toys more distracting than desirable?

NeeDohs were first introduced in 2010 by a company called Schylling as a way for people to relieve stress via sensory relief. Despite their original purpose, they sometimes cause problems in school settings when students misuse them, which has sparked a debate on whether or not the gel balls are truly necessary.

The main issue popping up with NeeDohs is that they are starting to be used as toys rather than tools. Instead of relieving stress, they cause it for teachers and staff.

Besides being agents of auditory and visual distraction, NeeDohs can be used to cheat on tests. Some students transfer pencil marks from their notes to the NeeDoh’s surface.

NeeDohs have been shown to be associated with cheating, so they are bad for tests,” said Shane Hanna, a science teacher at Greenbrier East. “Tests are when most students need [the squishies] the most. Also, you don’t see people in the workforce having a NeeDoh, so why reinforce that habit in school?”

Students view NeeDohs in a different light. Many see them as a fun way to get through the day, with some even bringing them to class as a way to concentrate.

“I like NeeDohs in school because they are stress relieving and help me focus,” said junior Bee Charuparinyarat. “It reminds me of gum. It calms you down and is a great resource for students.”

Whether or not you agree with NeeDoh use is a personal decision. As you can see, the squishies have their negatives and positives.

How do you feel about squishies in the classroom? Leave a comment below!