The new popular trend that is spinning into schools is the fidget spinner. It’s a toy like a top, but spun in a hand rather than a surface. The user bolds a pad at the center, and flicks one of three rounded blades. This sends the spinner rotating around a bearing at the center.

The toy has been advertised as helping people who have trouble focusing or fidgeting (such as those with ADHD, autism, or anxiety) by acting as a release mechanism for nervous energy or stress. Experts were divided on this claim, with some supporting it while others have a different opinion and argue that the toy may actually be more distracting.

Like I said before, the original intent for this little toy was to help people with ADD and ADHD. Students are so aware of everything going on in the classroom that they can’t concentrate on the content being taught. Similar to pen tapping and foot swinging, they now have a fidget spinner in their hand that helps drive some of that focus. Despite the original purpose students are beginning to overuse them, causing a distraction to the world around them. According to CNN News, “Fidget spinners have attracted all sorts of commentary. Some schools have banned them as a distraction, and there are worries that they may disrupt students’ learning. Others argue that fidget spinners can calm special needs students. But most simply categorize them as a craze of fad — the most recent in a long line of toys that children have swarmed to.”

There isn’t a lot of research to prove that these assist with ADD and ADHD. Everyone is just hoping on the bandwagon!