The fall of the Rainbow Loom - and why it was a mistake
Reflecting on the often unacknowledged value of Rainbow Loom
Photo courtesy of Today
Nikki Skyer, Sports Editor
The era of the Rainbow Loom was a simpler time. Children spending their free time looping and pulling and clipping and trading their masterpieces with friends was truly beautiful. But alas, just as every trend does, the Rainbow Loom excitement died out and the parents of Generation Z were left to pick up hundreds of tiny rubber bands lost deep in the carpet. But it is time we rethink our massive lapse in judgment. If we do not recognize what we will lose by throwing out this generational symbol of unity, soon, the damage may be irreversible.
Rainbow Loom is more than just a bracelet-making tool. In the three short years from the time of its invention to the height of the loom’s popularity, kids and preteens across 20 different countries developed a genuine relationship and love for their new hobby. Many trends come and go within our generation, but only a handful can be so representative of our age group that they connect us to one another. There is no doubt that Rainbow Loom deserves to be named as one of these trends.
Along with the emotional role that the Rainbow Loom played in our childhoods, there are very real and visible benefits of the activity. Not only does it teach pattern, number, shape, and color knowledge, but it shows kids how to follow instructions and identify solutions to their loom issues. Rainbow Loom is an exciting and effective way to develop fine motor skills, as there are ways to perfect the art both with and without the physical loom. The only truly necessary product to participate in looming are the bands; kids can use their fingers or even a fork for this creative outlet. The flexibility of this hobby leads it to being very inexpensive, pleasing parents by keeping the kids occupied for cheap.
The culture and community of the Rainbow Loom is quite possibly the most intriguing aspect. There is an instant connection upon finding out that somebody is a fellow loomer. They get it. They understand the frustration of complex designs, the way your heart drops when a band snaps, but most importantly, the sheer satisfaction of completing a tough design. Despite what many people may think, Rainbow Loom is not just for elementary-aged children. It is just as entertaining and beneficial for teens and even adults, and it is a shame that we ever allow ourselves to feel bored when looming is always an option.
Now is the time for us to open our minds, and hearts, to this timeless craft. There is definite hope for a Rainbow Loom revival, as we saw a short comeback during the early months of COVID-19. Teens, overcome by the dullness of staying home each day, brought out their dusty boxes of colored bands and got to work. An entire section of the social-media app Tik Tok was dedicated to sharing helpful loom tips and brand-new designs, just like we once did on the playground at recess.
We must no longer deny the influence and importance of looming. Let’s come together and not only bring back the age of the Rainbow Loom but give it new life and keep it alive for years to come. Generation Z was built on Rainbow Loom and if we can just embrace the core values that it has taught us, there is no telling what we may be able to achieve.
