Fidget spinners have become the latest obsession among children, taking over their attention, wallets, and, unfortunately, classrooms. These small, handheld devices are reminiscent of the Rubik’s Cube craze from earlier generations, only with a twist – they spin!
For those unfamiliar, fidget spinners can be balanced on a finger and tossed from one hand to another while spinning. You can spin them endlessly, even during conversations about chores you promised to complete, like tidying up the laundry tucked away in your closet. When someone finally yells, “Can you please stop spinning that thing for just thirty seconds?” you might let it drop, leaving a mark on your hardwood floor! The options for play are truly limitless.
Originally, these sensory toys were intended to assist parents with children who have autism, anxiety, or ADD/ADHD, providing a way to channel restless energy while enhancing focus and memory. However, they have quickly evolved into a widespread trend, with most elementary and middle school kids now sporting them.
My child and his friends do more than just play with fidget spinners; they obsess over them, constantly discussing upgrades in colors and materials. They even watch YouTube videos featuring “professional” fidgeters performing tricks, often leading to hours of frustration for the average kid trying to master them.
It’s understandable that kids struggle to sit still, especially in a classroom setting, making these gadgets appealing for a distraction during lessons. While generally harmless, these spinners are causing quite a stir among teachers.
Some schools have opted to ban fidget spinners entirely due to students tossing them around in classrooms and hallways. For instance, Maplewood Academy recently sent out a notice to parents clarifying their position on the matter.
Educators on social media echo these sentiments. Principal Lisa Thompson shared with the local news that the toys had begun to dominate their classrooms until the administration had to inform parents to keep them at home. “Honestly, we’ve noticed that the fidget spinners are having the opposite effect of what they were designed for,” Thompson remarked. “Instead of helping kids focus, they’re just trading them or spinning them instead of engaging in their work.”
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In summary, while fidget spinners have captivated children’s interests, they have become a significant distraction in schools, leading to a push for bans in many classrooms as teachers struggle to maintain focus and order.