Dustin Henderson, the science nerd who treats gadgets like snacks

Dustin Henderson is the kid who treats science like snack food and gadgets like trading cards. He packs a Thinking Cap, a ham radio named Cerebro, and enough batteries to power Hawkins for a weekend. After Camp Know Where he starts sentences with “according to my calculations” and ends them with karaoke. Compasses? He owns extras, just in case the Upside Down borrows north. If there is a beep, blink, fuse, or antenna, Dustin is already emotionally attached. For life.

He is the only middle schooler who hears static and thinks plot twist. He runs experiments like bake sales, with clipboards and snacks. Walkie-talkies become lifelines, code names become hobbies, and Steve Harrington becomes tech support with great hair. When Dustin says “I have a plan,” everyone checks their shoelaces and follows anyway, because his chaos usually comes with clear instructions and a spare screwdriver.

Here is the Dustin Henderson starter pack: a calculator that squeaks, enough duct tape to gift-wrap a Demogorgon, and a brain that yells science at breakfast. Dustin Henderson loves gadgets like other kids love sneakers. He logs mysteries, assigns parties, and treats Planck’s constant like a speed dial. The compass trick? Proud of it. The Russian signal? Recorded it. The NeverEnding Story duet? Absolutely his idea, because nothing says crisis like key changes and a triumphant fist pump. Every time.

If you need a present for a science nerd or Stranger Things fan, start with a Thinking Cap replica and a walkie-talkie that refuses silence. A Camp Know Where tee is a funny gift for gadget hoarders. Frame this article next to a label maker and call it a laboratory. Batteries not included, because Dustin would already loan you five and remind you to recycle.

Dedicated to Dustin: patron saint of fresh batteries, fearless karaoke, and emergency compasses. May your gadgets connect on the first try and your friends always answer channel three at night.