The need for NeeDohs

Desmond McLaughlin’s Needoh sits on his desk waiting for use while he does his work.

BY AMYAH GONZALEZ

OBHS finds itself flooded with the newest trend: NeeDohs!

NeeDohs appeared in stores in 2017, but early this year, they rose to fame. “I, personally, think the new internet craze over NeeDohs is very positive,” said Jasmine Elsherbini. “I always have a Needoh in my hand, and I love collecting them.”

Due to the skyrocket in popularity, NeeDohs fly off the shelves. “It was quite hard to find them, especially since they’re very popular right now,” said freshman Naina Chhabra. “They’ve been sold out everywhere. I got lucky and found a knock off branded Needoh at a gas station, but I have been searching for months.”

No matter what a person’s opinions on NeeDohs, most people can agree they have taken the teen world over by storm. The audience for these toys goes beyond just teens. Adults and parents of teens stay updated on the stock in stores. “My mom is always on the lookout for them, so I have to thank her for all the ones I have because she has gotten so good at finding them,” said Mariella Francisco.

Aashi Raval squishes her Needoh during a break in class.

Teens with NeeDohs swear the positives outweigh the negatives. “It’s like a fidget toy that gives your hands something to do, which can help quiet your mind and make it easier to concentrate,” said sophomore Shea Aquilino. “NeeDohs can also help calm anxiety by providing a tactile outlet for nervous energy, which can reduce stress and promote relaxation.”

Not everyone agrees that these new toys are beneficial. “They can be distracting because some people focus more on the squishy than what they’re supposed to be doing,” said Isabelle Nersita.

History teacher Joseph D’Amico transformed his cubby into a Needoh Cubby.

Some teachers oppose the distraction in school; students argue that NeeDohs have a place in school. “I’ve been less stressed while doing work, and I’m happy I get to share mine with people in my class that need it,” said Zoey Johnson.

Despite all of the arguments between educators and students about these toys. One thing is clear; they will continue to be a prevalent trend in classrooms. “I think if stress toys help teens, they should definitely invest in one,” said Alexandra Popyk.

Posted on May 18, 2026

Photos by Amyah Gonzalez