Popit toys are generally worth buying for most children, particularly those who benefit from sensory stimulation or stress relief. They're affordable, durable (when quality versions are purchased), and offer genuine developmental benefits. However, their long-term value depends on your child's age, needs, and learning environment.
Popit toys took the world by storm in 2021, going from a niche sensory tool to one of the most searched-for children's toys on the planet almost overnight. You've almost certainly seen them — those brightly coloured silicone boards covered in rows of bubbles that pop with a satisfying click when pressed. They come in every shape imaginable, from simple squares to unicorns, dinosaurs, and even food items.
But once the trend fades, the real question parents are left asking is: are Popit toys actually worth buying, or are they just another toy that ends up forgotten under the sofa?
The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Popit toys do offer genuine benefits — particularly for children with sensory processing needs, anxiety, or ADHD — but they also come with a few caveats worth understanding before you buy. This guide breaks down everything parents need to know, from developmental benefits and drawbacks to how to choose a quality product that actually lasts.
What Are Popit Toys?
Popit toys (also commonly written as "pop it" toys) are flat, reusable sensory toys made from flexible silicone. Each toy features a grid of raised bubbles that can be pushed through from either side, making a soft popping sound. Once all the bubbles on one side are popped, you simply flip the toy over and start again.
The design itself is surprisingly simple, which is part of the appeal. There are no batteries, no screens, and no complicated rules. Children can use them independently, play with friends in simple turn-based games, or simply fidget with them while doing something else.
The origin of Popit toys traces back to a patent filed by Theo and Ora Coster — an Israeli couple known for inventing the board game Guess Who — who designed a similar sensory product in the 1970s. The concept was later developed and commercialised by the Israeli company FoxMind Games. It wasn't until social media, particularly TikTok, propelled the toy into viral fame around 2021 that Popit toys became a mainstream phenomenon across the UK and globally.
Are Popit Toys Worth Buying? Key Considerations
Do Popit toys provide real stress relief and sensory benefits for children?
Yes — and this is arguably their strongest selling point. Repetitive physical actions, like pressing bubbles, can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body's stress response. For children who struggle to self-regulate, having a tactile outlet can make a meaningful difference.
Occupational therapists have long recommended similar sensory tools for children with sensory processing difficulties, and Popit toys fit neatly into this category. The predictable, repetitive sensation gives children something concrete to focus on, which can be genuinely soothing during moments of anxiety or overwhelm.
How do Popit toys compare in cost and long-term value?
Popit toys are remarkably affordable. Basic versions typically retail between £3 and £10, while larger or novelty-shaped versions can cost up to £20. For the price, they offer excellent value — a quality silicone Popit toy can last years with normal use.
The caveat here is quality. Cheaper versions, often found in discount shops or through unverified online sellers, can be made from lower-grade materials that tear, lose their elasticity, or develop an unpleasant smell over time. Spending a little more on a reputable product generally pays off.
Are Popit toys suitable for all ages and developmental stages?
Popit toys are broadly suitable for children aged three and above, though always check the manufacturer's guidance. For toddlers, the large bubble designs work best as they're easier to press and less of a choking hazard. Older children and even teenagers often enjoy them too — particularly those who fidget during focused tasks like reading or studying.
For very young children, close supervision is recommended, as silicone pieces can occasionally come apart from cheaper products.
The Educational and Developmental Benefits of Popit Toys
Can Popit toys help children focus and learn?
Research into fidgeting and focus suggests that for some children — particularly those with ADHD or attention difficulties — having a low-stimulation sensory outlet can actually improve concentration on cognitive tasks. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology found that hyperactive movement in children with ADHD was associated with better working memory performance. Popit toys offer a quiet, non-disruptive way to channel this kind of movement.
That said, it's important to distinguish between productive fidgeting (which helps focus) and distracted play (which hinders it). Popit toys work best as a background sensory tool rather than a primary activity during learning.
How do Popit toys support children with anxiety or sensory processing needs?
For children who experience anxiety or have sensory processing differences, Popit toys can serve as a grounding tool. The tactile feedback — that consistent pop — gives children something immediate and predictable to anchor to when they feel overwhelmed. Many parents of children with autism spectrum conditions (ASC) or sensory processing disorder (SPD) report that Popit toys have become a go-to item in their child's sensory toolkit.
Do Popit toys help develop fine motor skills?
Yes, particularly for younger children. Pressing the individual bubbles requires controlled finger movements and hand-eye coordination. For children in early developmental stages, this kind of repetitive, targeted motion supports the fine motor skills needed for writing, drawing, and self-care tasks.
What are the social benefits of Popit toys?
Popit toys can also serve as a surprisingly effective social tool. Children often invent simple turn-based games — such as taking turns popping a set number of bubbles, with the person who pops the last bubble losing — which encourages basic strategic thinking, turn-taking, and peer interaction. For children who find unstructured social play challenging, this low-pressure game structure can be a helpful bridge.
Potential Drawbacks and Concerns
Can Popit toys be a distraction in classroom settings?
This is the most common concern raised by teachers and parents alike. While Popit toys can support focus for some children, they can equally distract others — and disrupt surrounding classmates. Many UK primary schools have implemented policies restricting fidget toys during lessons for this reason.
If your child wants to use a Popit toy at school, it's worth checking the school's policy first and, if needed, speaking with the class teacher about whether it's appropriate given your child's specific needs.
Are cheaper Popit toys a quality and safety risk?
Absolutely. The market has been flooded with low-quality imitations, particularly from unregulated sellers on platforms like Amazon Marketplace and eBay. These products may not meet UK toy safety standards (BS EN 71), may use non-food-grade silicone, or may contain small parts that pose a choking risk.
Always look for toys marked with the CE or UKCA safety mark, and buy from reputable retailers where possible.
What is the environmental impact of Popit toys?
Silicone is more durable and longer-lasting than most plastics, which gives it a slight edge environmentally. However, it's not widely recyclable through standard household recycling schemes in the UK. Given the sheer volume of Popit toys produced since their viral moment, their environmental footprint is worth considering. Buying a higher-quality toy that lasts longer — rather than replacing cheap versions frequently — is the most sustainable approach.
How Do Popit Toys Compare to Other Fidget Tools?
Popit toys vs. stress balls, fidget spinners, and cube toys
The fidget toy market is broad. Here's how Popit toys stack up against other common options:
- Stress balls offer a similar tactile release but with a squeezing motion rather than pressing. They're arguably more discreet but offer less variety of sensation.
- Fidget spinners were the dominant toy of 2017 and provide a visual and kinetic stimulus. However, they require more dexterity and can be noisier and more distracting in group settings.
- Fidget cubes offer multiple sensory inputs (buttons, switches, dials) in one small device, making them versatile but also potentially more distracting.
Popit toys stand out for their simplicity, low noise level, and accessibility for younger children. They're also easier to clean and maintain than many alternatives.
What is the typical price range for a quality Popit toy?
A reliable, well-made Popit toy in the UK will cost between £5 and £15 depending on the size and design. Anything significantly below this threshold should be approached with caution regarding quality and safety.
What Do Real Parents Say About Popit Toys?
Parent reviews across UK forums and retail platforms are largely positive, particularly among parents of children with additional needs. Common themes include:
- Children using Popit toys to self-soothe during car journeys, waiting rooms, or unfamiliar situations
- The toys proving surprisingly durable, with some families reporting the same Popit toy lasting well over a year
- Older siblings and even parents picking up the toys themselves
Children's feedback is predictably enthusiastic at first, though many parents note that interest can wane after a few months without new shapes or games to reinvigorate play. Introducing novelty — through different shapes or invented games — tends to extend engagement.
How to Choose a Quality Popit Toy
What should parents look for when buying a Popit toy?
- Material: Opt for food-grade or high-quality silicone, which is softer, more durable, and safer than cheaper alternatives
- Safety markings: Look for the UKCA or CE mark on the packaging
- Bubble resistance: Squeeze a bubble before buying — it should pop back cleanly with no stickiness or resistance
- Size and shape: Younger children benefit from larger bubbles; novelty shapes can sustain interest for older children
- Retailer: Purchase from reputable toy retailers such as Smyths Toys, John Lewis, or verified Amazon sellers
Which brands are worth considering?
FoxMind Games, the original creators, produce reliable products. Coogam and ZURU are also well-regarded brands available in the UK with solid safety records. Avoid unbranded products without clear manufacturer information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Popit Toys
Are Popit toys safe for toddlers under three?
Most Popit toys are not recommended for children under three due to the potential for small pieces to become detached from lower-quality products. For toddlers, look specifically for toys labelled as suitable for ages two and above, which are designed with larger components and stricter safety standards.
Do Popit toys actually help children with ADHD?
For some children with ADHD, yes. Repetitive tactile fidgeting can support focus by providing a low-level sensory outlet that doesn't compete with cognitive tasks. However, results vary between children, and Popit toys are not a substitute for professional support or intervention. Speaking with your child's GP or occupational therapist for tailored advice is always recommended.
How long do Popit toys last?
A quality Popit toy made from durable silicone can last one to three years with regular use. Cheaper versions may begin to lose elasticity or tear within a few months.
Can Popit toys be used in schools?
This depends entirely on the school's policy. Some UK schools permit sensory toys for children with documented needs, while others restrict them for all pupils. Check with your child's school before sending a Popit toy in.
Are Popit toys environmentally friendly?
Silicone is more durable than plastic and doesn't degrade as quickly, making it a more sustainable material in the long run. However, silicone is not commonly recyclable through UK household recycling. Prioritising quality over quantity is the most environmentally conscious approach.
To learn more about their design, popularity and sensory appeal, read our complete guide: What Is a Popit Toy and Why Do UK Kids Love It?
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The Verdict: Are Popit Toys Worth It?
For most families, Popit toys represent good value — particularly when purchased from reputable brands at a reasonable price point. The developmental and sensory benefits are genuine, the cost is low, and a quality product will last. For children with anxiety, ADHD, or sensory processing needs, they can be especially worthwhile.
The key is managing expectations. Popit toys are not a cure for attention difficulties, and like any toy, interest will eventually plateau. Buy quality over cheap, check school policies before purchase, and consider your child's specific needs and developmental stage.
For children who enjoy tactile play and need a quiet outlet for restless energy, a Popit toy is a sensible, low-cost addition to their toy collection. For children who are unlikely to engage with sensory toys, the novelty may wear off faster than expected — and that's perfectly fine too.
