A fidget spinner is a toy that is marketed as relieving stress. It consists of a bearing in the center of a multi-lobed flat structure made from metal or plastic. The toy has been advertised as helping people who have trouble with focusing or fidgeting (such as those with ADHD, autism, or anxiety) by acting as a release mechanism for nervous energy or psychological stress. Experts are divided, with some supporting this claim and others disputing its scientific basis, arguing that the toy may be distracting.
What The Hell Is It? A fidget spinner is basically a stress relief toy. It's made up of a ball bearing surrounded by a circular pad with"blades" which spin around the bearing.
What It Is Used For? The toy was initially developed in the 90's to help people who have trouble focussing, and those with ADHD, autism, or anxiety.
Do They Actually Work? No, it may keep you distracted, but experts claim that there is no research that exists to prove fidget spinners are effective in treating ADHD or autism.
Why Are People So Obsessed With Them? That is one of the great mysteries we can't figure out. These things have been around for 27 years and yet all of a sudden they are sold out everywhere and the demand is skyrocketing.
How Was It Invented? The original toy was invented by Catherine Hettinger who saw children throwing rocks at a policeman and decided that kids needed a device for releasing pent up energy.
The Inventor Isn't Making Any Money In 1993 the inventor tried to sell the toy to Hasbro but they weren't interested, so she let her patent expire. At this point it's not clear which patents, cover fidget spinners, which means the modern spinner inventor is currently still unknown.
What's the Point? Distraction mostly, although some people on YouTube have been making a lot of money with their trick tutorial and demo videos.
Are They Banned Yet? Not everywhere just yet, but many Montreal schools have already banned them.
Are They Dangerous? Not really, some news sites have attempted to sensationalize "spinner injuries" but the worst thing that happened so far, was that it got stuck in people's hair or it hit a kid in the eye after being thrown. I'm pretty sure yo-yos, Frisbees, skateboards, and pretty much every other kid's toy has a higher injury rate.
Where Can I Buy One? They are sold-out in most stores, so your best best is to order one online.
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