We have all seen them by now those spinning devices that kids and adults alike are using everywhere these days. Now I don't claim to speak for all teachers but I wanted to give you my take as an elementary teacher about these twirling little marvels. If you are looking for a history of the Fidget Spinner please use the following link http://time.com/money/4762207/fidget-spinner-inventor-catherine-hettinger as it provides great information on the inventor and the decades she struggled to get her invention marketed.
My personal take on fidget spinners is that they are essential for some students and an incredible distraction for most. I have witnessed first hand the calming effect that these devices can have on students the devices are intended for (those students with ADHD, autism, or anxiety). The device does exactly what it is supposed to do by providing a way for students to release nervous fidgety energy and stress.
The problem now however is because they are so cool looking and calming to the users they have become a distraction in classrooms. Imagine for a moment being in a classroom and having half a dozen (sometimes many more) of these spinning gizmos going at once. To make things even more challenging, the designs are becoming increasingly wilder. Now they are available in a wide assortment of colours, sizes, shapes and even with embedded lights.
For the most part in the Science and Technology classes I teach, I try to incorporate them where and if I can into lessons and our classroom routines. Presently I ask that the spinners be put away during portions of the lessons that require direct instruction and the only exceptions to this are those students who have a need for them as part of their educational plan. Personally I think they are cool to look at and even cooler to use but the reality is unfortunately it can be a challenge to get an entire class to focus on a good day without a bunch of twirling spinners vying for their attention. I am sure the School Board I work for will come up with a policy or include them in an existing one as Fidget Spinners have graduated in many cases from necessary tools to that of a distracting toy.
