Tulsa Doctor: Fidget Spinners Could Be Choking Hazard For Young Children

Fidget spinners are the newest fad across the United States. They’re designed to help people focus, but some doctors say they could be dangerous for children.

They say if fidget spinners are used incorrectly, and without the proper supervision, they can be a serious choking hazard and could land you and your child at the doctor’s office or in the E.R.

Fidget spinners come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

“I have two – one is green, one is black. They help me concentrate in class,” Evelynn Harader said.

The idea is to help people with attention disorders concentrate.

"To help focus restless energy to help them concentrate more effectively," said family practice physician, Dr. Scott Ghere.

Ghere said fidget spinners are useful, but they’re not designed for children under the age of three and can be a serious choking hazard.

While he hasn't seen any injuries, he said parents should be cautious.

"Good rules of thumb is if it fits through a toilet paper roll it can be choked on, so anything that has potential small parts needs to be watched," he said.

Ghere said kids between the ages of three and six need to be supervised when using any small toys. He also said it’s important for parents to get rid of any broken toys.

Some parents we spoke with said they’re not too worried but understand the risks.

"I never thought of it that way, but yes it could be. I mean, it is small enough, and even at four years old they still have a tendency to start sticking things in their mouths," parent Steven Harader said.

Ghere said supervision is key.

"Even if there is no warning on a product, nothing takes the place of a parent keeping an eye on their child," he said.

Ghere said if you do get one, make sure it's focused to the individual, and, most importantly, be smart about what you're giving your children.