Stores are running out, websites are running out, and even hardware stores are running out.
The growing trend of NeeDohs has emptied store shelves.
A NeeDoh is a type of stress ball or sensory fidget toy created by a company called Schylling. Known for its silky, stretchy, and durable texture, it can be squeezed, pulled, or smushed and always returns to its original shape.
Students are bringing them to school, creating a stress-free and fun atmosphere where everyone can share and talk about their different NeeDohs.
Jennie Seabold, chemistry and physics teacher, owns several NeeDohs.
“It’s just a different form of fidget spinner. It’ll be a trend for a minute, but then there will be the next cool thing that students have,” Seabold said. “I’m all for it, though! I think they’re fun.”
Other teachers have joined the trend, including Makenna Kelley, brain health retreat room liaison.
“I love having NeeDohs in the BHRR. I have noticed that when I offer a NeeDoh or any other type of fidget (toy) to a student before asking about their presenting problem, it has helped people share more openly about their feelings,” Kelley said. “When part of the student’s attention is focused on fidgeting with the NeeDohs, it can make talking about their feelings seem less overwhelming.”
NeeDohs help students deal with stress in their classes.
Senior Rhett Ronnenberg enjoys burning off energy during class with his NeeDohs, which helps him focus better on his academics.
Freshman Taelyn Thomsen owns her own round, pink NeeDoh. “I use them more for stress relief,” Thomsen said. “They’re more than just for fun.”
Abbey Zanker enjoys the NeeDoh trend because it brings people together.
“It’s like a conversation starter with people I’ve never talked to before,” Zanker said. “I use them as a mix of both for stress and for fun, one time I was so stressed I popped one.”
Students have enjoyed this latest trend, including sophomore Wesley Helle.
“I hope it never goes away,” Helle said. “They’re relaxing and fun to play with.”
Kelley thinks the trend is more than just a passing distraction.
“As a social worker who utilizes NeeDohs when working with students, I love the trend,” Kelley said. “It is fun to see students ‘normalizing’ the usage of different tools to help with stress and anxiety. Even if some students are utilizing them just for fun, I think it is a fun way for students to come together and engage in the trend with one another.”
