Why fidget toys are everywhere (and what it means for neurodivergence) | Hyperfocus

Understood Podcast 5 days ago

Description

Fidget toys, like NeeDohs, are sold out and banned in classrooms. Journalist Anna North joins us to unpack how fidget toys went from gag gifts to a generational obsession, and what that shift reveals about neurodivergence, attention, and play. Plus, fidget toys are not just for kids. We look at how they are destigmatizing fidgeting for neurodivergent adults. And we dig into the science behind fidgeting, the history of the fidget spinner, and whether this wave of acceptance for sensory needs will survive.

For more on this topic:
Read: Why your kid is obsessed with squishy toys https://www.vox.com/culture/491330/needoh-nice-cube-squishy-dumpling-fidget-toys
Watch: Can I get rid of my adult sensory issues? https://youtu.be/LXfpPg71mLY?si=8hUmvBOfI8vUEtBs

For a transcript and more resources, visit Hyperfocus on Understood.org. https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/hyperfocus/adhd-fidget-toy

You can also email us at hyperfocus@understood.org.

Questions about learning and thinking differences? Get answers and expert-vetted resources by asking the AI-powered Understood Assistant:
https://www.understood.org/en/assistant?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=assistant-agn-prod&utm_content=video

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at https://www.understood.org/en/donate?sc=HYP0725YTO&utm_medium=organic&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=fundraising-agn-vid-hyperfocus&utm_content=video

For more resources, support, and excellent memes, subscribe to our YouTube channel or follow us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/understoodorg/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Understood/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@understood.org
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/understoodorg/

#FidgetToys #ADHD #NeeDoh #Sensory #Hyperfocus