A new toy craze hitting Danish school playgrounds and across the world is quickly dividing opinion.
Fidget spinners, a modern take on the classic spinning top, has been described by some as a classroom distraction and by others as a benefit to sufferers of ADHD and autism.
What is clearer is that playing with them is addictive – both with kids and adults.
Selling out fast
Fidget spinners, a three-pronged device set on ball bearings that fits into the palm of your hand, are selling out fast all over the country. They tend to retail for 80 kroner.
According to Bent Rode, the owner of Rodes Lejetøj in Hillerød, it’s the biggest craze for years.
“I’ve been selling toys for 30 years and seen many crazes come and go: Yo-yos, Chinese jacks, Pokemon and Kendama,” he told Politiken.
“But I’ve never experienced anything like the fidget spinner.”
Rode saw an immediate impact when he ordered in 1,440 from Sweden, as they sold out in less than a day. Rode then went on sell 6,000 in just two weeks.
“I dare not put them in the web shop,” he continued.
“I’m afraid they’ll sell out so fast we won’t have enough for everyone who orders.”
Short-sighted schools?
The global phenomenon has rapidly gained traction in the media due to reports of queues outside toy shops across the world, as well as recent bans of the popular toy in schools.
But are the schools overseeing the benefits? Although it was originally marketed as a stress-reliever, the fidget spinner works as an aid for concentration for people with learning difficulties.
For the more advanced user there are a variety of tricks and challenges to impress your friends and colleagues.
Safety hazard
Nevertheless, there have already been a high number of imitation products, and there are a number of safety risks associated with the seemingly harmless toy.
Parents of children under the age of eight are advised of the choking risks due to the easily dissembled components.
While one Australian mother recently reported that her son almost lost his eye after attempting to perform a trick.
