When walking into a high school classroom today, students are often seen squeezing brightly colored squishy toys. These toys, especially NeeDohs, have become extremely popular amongst teenagers in the past few months.
NeedDohs are soft stress balls filled with smooth, dough-like material. They come in many different shapes, sizes and colors. Some of them are animals, food and just classic shapes like spheres and cubes. Other types of squishy toys include other types of stress balls, mochi squishies and putty-type slime to play with, which are all commonly seen in schools.
This wave of stress toys raises the question of why they have become so popular.
There are many reasons why high school students gravitate towards these toys. Many students use them to reduce stress, stay focused, follow trends and connect with friends.
High school students experience tests, homework, sports, jobs and college preparation. Squeezing a squishy toy can provide a calming effect before stressful situations like a test or presentation. The repetitive squeezing and releasing of the toy can reduce stress and help students calm down.
“I think they’re super nice to have in class because they help me focus on my school work. They also help me take my mind off the stress at school,” Maggie Frimming (9) said.
Squishy toys have become a social trend. Social media videos on tiktok show people hunting for squishies and showing off their collections, making younger audiences more eager to participate in the trend. In school, students trade toys, try out each other’s and use them together as a fun way to interact socially.
“I think they’re fun to play with,” Abigail Edmondson (9) said.
Squishy toys also assist with student focus. Using stress balls can replace tapping a pencil or other fidgeting, helping students stay focused during class and lessons. Some teachers allow squishies in class for this reason, while other teachers may remove toys if they become a distraction.
I don’t think they are distracting for some of my students, I think it works for them, however when students are throwing them, that’s when it becomes distracting,” Math Teacher Katie Carelock said.
Most squishy toys are inexpensive, making it easy to collect multiple colors, shapes and sizes. Limited editions or rare toys increase interest and make it a fun thing to participate in. Students often collect different types of toys to show off to peers or create a personal collection.
“I love them, I have five, so much fun,” Lexi Zins (12) said.
Squishy toys are not just a temporary trend. These small, colorful toys help students manage stress, stay focused and connect with friends. In a busy high school environment, a simple toy can provide a break and some much-needed fun.
