Picture this: you’re sitting in class working on a crucial assignment when suddenly, your classmate hands you a soft, malleable pink blob. Unsure of how to respond, you take the unidentified item and realize that it is the stress-relieving toy that has been bombarding your For You Page on TikTok. NeeDoh is a popular line of sensory fidget toys designed by Schylling, which come in different colors, textures, sizes, and shapes. With a simple look, these seem too simple and ordinary to go viral on social media platforms, but without any instructions or batteries, one squeeze can bring ease to one’s mind. As the name states, they have a dough-like consistency and can vary according to the specific product type.

NeeDoh’s “Nice Cube” is one of their most popular products, coming in three different sizes and shaped to resemble an ice cube. This particular design utilizes a non-toxic gel substance within the product that can freeze in certain temperatures and can only be warmed up by hand. Despite their newfound fame, this brand is certainly not the most upcoming.

“I know that in 2021, the ‘Gobs of Globs,’ also known as “Globbles,” were trending as well and were from the same brand, so it’s not surprising that NeeDohs resurfaced,” Katie Cha (11) said.

This algorithm brought TikTok users down memory lane while also encouraging many to collect the different versions and textures. They are fun to handle and share, yet many students have also realized the academic benefits this toy can bring.

“NeeDohs are definitely more helpful in the classroom, especially since so many students are distracted by their phones or by games on their computers,” Kaylie Tak (10) said. “They have nothing to do involving devices and honestly cater to a wide variety of students.”

Not only do these toys help students, but they can also help individuals with ADHD, autism, or sensory needs in general. These toys are relatively affordable in comparison to other regulatory devices, as the most popular designs range from $2.99 to $5.99.

Even if a student, teenager, parent, or any breathing human being does not believe they “need” a fidget toy, NeeDohs act as a portable stress reliever, even if it’s within their own subconscious. In a world where many students are preoccupied with AP classes, extracurriculars, and their social lives, the cool, smooth texture of a NeeDoh can make a big difference in one’s day.

“As a senior, I feel like a lot of students want to find a way to make school more fun, especially since it’s the second semester and a few of us have already gotten acceptances to our target colleges,” Danika Thakkar (12) said. “NeeDohs are very entertaining and actually let me stay on task.”

The only flaw that some might point out regarding this toy is whether students would be able to remain focused with such a satisfying object. Though there are some concerns, many students on campus have reported that most teachers have no problems as long as they do not detract from students’ learning experiences. So, as long as they remain useful to students, let’s embrace the dough on campus.