NeeDoh, a line of sensory squishy toys, has gone viral on social media in recent months. “I want one, but they’re really hard to find,” said 11‑year‑old Andrii of London. “I prefer the gummy bear one.” Maria Greenhalf, a registered psychotherapist at Vanier Children’s Mental Wellness in London, said fidget toys such as NeeDohs can be very helpful for some youth in managing stressful situations. “When children and youth are feeling anxious, using their hands to squeeze or manipulate the fidget can help them calm their nervous system,” Greenhalf said. “There are also benefits such as improved focus and reduced feelings of overwhelm.” Greenhalf said incorporating these tools into difficult or stressful situations can help children centre their emotions. “It’s about facilitating a process in which children can develop emotional regulation for a lifetime and resilience,” she said. “Although fidget toys support that work, they are not the work itself.” Greenhalf said it is important to recognize that fidget toys are not effective for everyone managing anxiety and that therapy remains the most effective resource. “It is a case‑by‑case scenario,” she said.
