What began as the latest trading frenzy among school-aged children has seeped into adult fashion and prompted school bans throughout the country. 

Silly Bandz, brightly colored silicone bracelets that hold shapes such as animals or princesses sell for $4.95 per 24-pack. Bandz and imitators are estimated to now be a $200 million-a-year business and growing.

Of course, Silly Bandz make no more sense than Pokemon cards, Webkinz or even the friendship pins of yore. But, some teachers say the trading among students gets so disruptive that they have banned the accessory from the classroom. Kids are more interested in showing off and playing with the bracelets, and there are stories of trades gone bad, resulting in schoolyard scuffles.

The New York Times reported recently that some impressionable adults are falling for the hype and adding them to their outfits. Gannet reports that Toys R Us is selling "tens of thousands" of packs a day. 

"This could be the hottest toy of the year," Karen Dodge, Toys R Us' chief merchandising officer told Gannet.

The bracelets have been banned at some summer camps and pools, where they have been accused of disintegrating easily in chlorinated water and clogging pool filters.  Local schools are likely preparing to deal with the fad once they open next month.

One of the reasons cited for outlawing the bracelets is that some children show up with up to hundred of these rubber-band-type bracelets on their arm, and it cuts off circulation to their hands.  Parents, don't let your children become victims of this sort of stupidity.