Recently, squishies have become very popular, especially Needohs. However, teachers and some students see them as a distraction in the classroom, and they can even damage carpets if they pop. At the same time, others believe they help students focus. So, are Needohs helpful tools, or just a short-lived trend that disrupts learning?

Personally, I believe Needohs help students more than they hurt them. They can be useful tools for keeping students on track, especially those with ADHD, ADD, or anxiety disorders. Studies show that sensory tools like squishies can increase engagement for both students with and without attention challenges. An article titled “The Dos and Don’ts of Fidgets for Kids” states, “They provide a quiet, non-disruptive alternative to tapping pencils or tapping feet.” This suggests that, when used correctly, these tools can actually improve focus and reduce distractions in the classroom.

With the implementation of rules stating that any Needoh or squishy seen by a teacher will be confiscated with no return, many students feel frustrated. While this rule may seem fair at first—since teachers want to maintain a clean and distraction-free environment—it does not consider how helpful these tools can be for certain students. Not every student uses a Needoh simply to play with it; some rely on it to stay calm and focused during lessons.

For example, one student, Emery Orton, says, “Needohs help me focus and pay attention in class.” This shows that, for some students, these squishies are not toys but tools. Taking them away completely could make it harder for those students to concentrate, especially during long or stressful classes. Instead of banning them, teachers could create clear guidelines for their use. For instance, students might be allowed to use them during independent work time or when they feel anxious, as long as they are not distracting others.

On the other hand, it is true that Needohs can become a problem. If students are throwing them, popping them, or using them in a noisy way, they can interrupt learning and damage classroom materials like carpets. This is why balance is important. Teachers and students should work together to find a solution that allows the benefits of these tools without causing disruptions.