You’ve probably heard about the latest toy craze that is the fidget spinner. It seems to be everywhere as both old and young have fallen in love with the biggest toy trend to come around in a long time. For those who missed the memo, how about a quick description of what a fidget spinner is?
A fidget spinner is a funky-shaped plastic designed with a bearing at the center and two or three prongs that spin. That’s as much as the whirling toy does. But, its simplicity has not stopped the world from being obsessed with it; so much so that manufacturers are finding it hard to keep up with market demands.
But what has made this toy so popular? More importantly, what as a parent, do you need to know about fidget spinners?
1. It is addictive
One factor that has played a hugely important role in making fidget spinners so popular with folks in the US and the UK is its addictive nature. There is a sensation that you get from having the small, fast-spinning device in your hand. There are various spinning forces that undulate in your hands while you take the toy for a spin.
The real fun with a fidget spinner comes by trying out different stunts and various tricks. This could engage any grown-up mind for as long as possible. Now imagine a young mind trying to figure out what different ways to have fun with the toy.
If this is a good thing or not is relative. It could serve as a sort of distraction for any child and may hurt the child’s academics. On the other hand, a parent could also use it to keep a child busy if the need arises.
2. Are there any health benefits?
This has been a major point of discussion and the jury is still out on it.
One of the major selling points emphasized by manufacturers of fidget spinners is its ability to help children (even adults) with sensory processing issues, attention and anxiety. The things that can be done with a fidget spinner – tricks, spins, twirls – provides a sensory stimulation for those with specific mental issues.
They can also soothe children with sensory issues as children with developmental delay will usually use a special toy that provides a calming stimulation. As such, they tend to take it with them everywhere they go.
But, there’s a counter-argument on the other side of the divide.
Many medical practitioners seem to be very wary of attaching any health benefits to the use of fidget spinners. The most general conclusion is that they were never made to be a medical aid or medical device. And since it is not FDA approved, to be used as a medical therapy, you may find out that doctors will be skeptical about prescribing them.
3. Safe to use or dangerous?
It’s hard to attribute safety to a toy that has fast spinning parts. Add to that the fact that some accidents have been connected with the use of fidget spinners and you’ll understand the risks involved.
As a parent, it could be difficult to overlook a toy half the neighborhood are going on and on about. It could get even harder if your kid is the only one without the toy in his/her class. But, you have to weigh the pros against the cons before making a decision to buy one of those toys off the shelf.
And this article has laid all bare for you to see. Go through it again and let it guide you to making a decision as to whether to get a fidget spinner for your ward or not.
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