What used to be Rubik's Cubes and fidget spinners are now Needohs and Krumples. Fidgets are kind of like stress balls, but filled with liquids and come in all shapes and sizes. They are considered a toy, but what's their benefit?
Even Mr. Bausch, a history teacher at LHS, who is considered a “fun hater” by some students, agrees that these toys can have a purpose.
“I think these fidgets are beneficial to a point, but when Holly is stealing Peyton’s magnets, and Kyra is throwing random things at Finn, then they’re no longer beneficial. But I do think there is value for some people in having something in their hands while thinking. That’s why I have a marker, ruler, or towel in my hand,” Bausch said.
While they have some negatives, students who have something to do with their hands in class can sometimes help them be less of a distraction to their classmates.
Senior Addison Bevins has over 25 squishies, which, according to Mr. Bausch, “Shows me her lack of economic rationality and her complete total either disregard or understanding of opportunity costs and what she spends her money on.”
Bevins isn’t the only one; all around the world, fidgets are becoming very popular, especially squishies like Needohs.
“If I were to go to Target on a Monday, they would be fully stocked, but if I went back on Tuesday, they would be all sold out,” said junior Braelyn Versen, who has 8 herself.
At LHS, fidgets can be seen in every class, ranging from 3-D printed fidgets in Mr. Rice's class to the fidget box in Mrs. Frahm Krick's room.
A survey was sent out about students' top three favorite fidgets. Their favorite fidget is the Needoh ice cube, while number 2 is the Needoh fuzzball. Taking third place are Krumples, and coming as an honorable mention is the Squeeze Cheese. As they are becoming more popular, fidgets have been seen as popular and fun for kids and adults.