Why Kids Chew on Things (And What to Do About It)
If you have ever found teeth marks on a pencil, a soggy shirt collar, or had your child constantly putting things in their mouth long past the toddler stage, you are definitely not alone. It is something we see all the time, and as parents, it can be pretty frustrating when favourite clothes get ruined, or you are worried about them chewing something unsafe.
The truth is, kids, chew for a reason. It is rarely just a bad habit they need to "snap out of." Usually, it is their body's way of trying to self-regulate or process sensory information.
Just a quick reminder: We are sharing our perspective as parents. If you are concerned about your child's chewing habits, it is always best to chat with their OT or paediatrician for professional advice.
Understanding Oral Sensory Needs
When we talk about oral sensory needs, we are looking at how a child's brain processes input from their mouth. For some kids, the physical act of chewing provides deep pressure to the jaw, which can be incredibly calming. It is similar to why some of us might bite our nails or chew gum when we are stressed.
Kids often chew more when they are feeling anxious, trying to focus on a difficult task, or feeling overwhelmed by a busy environment. It is a coping mechanism. Instead of trying to stop the chewing completely, the goal is usually to redirect it to something safe and appropriate.
Finding the Right Chew Tools
When you are looking for chew toys for ADHD or sensory processing differences, the key is finding something that matches your child's chewing style. Some kids are light chewers who just need something to gently nibble, while others are aggressive chewers who will quickly destroy something too soft.
This is where chew necklaces for kids become a lifesaver. They are wearable, so they are always there when the urge to chew hits, and they look just like regular accessories.
Wearable Solutions That Work
We have had great success with the Jellystone range because they look cool and are made from safe, food-grade silicone. For kids who like something a bit chunky, the Jellystone Robot Chew Pendant is fantastic. It has different textures on the front and back, which gives kids different sensory experiences.
If your child prefers something a bit more subtle or stylish, the Jellystone Mermaid Tail Chew Pendant is really popular. It is durable but flexible, and it just looks like a fun piece of jewellery rather than a "chew toy."
Alternatives to Silicone
Not every child likes the feel of silicone. Some kids specifically seek out the feeling of fabric, which is why shirt collars and sleeves take such a beating. If your child is a fabric chewer, giving them a silicone pendant might not solve the problem.
In those cases, an Absorbent Sensory Chew can be a brilliant alternative. It gives them that fabric texture they are craving but saves their actual clothes from getting ruined. You can just wash it and reuse it.
Creating a "Chew Safe" Environment
Redirecting chewing behaviour takes time and patience. We found it helpful to keep a few different options available. Having a Jellystone Sensory Gift Set on hand means you have a variety of textures and shapes for them to try.
When you notice your child chewing on something they shouldn't, gently offer their chew necklace instead. Over time, they start to associate the necklace with that calming feeling and will seek it out themselves.
It is all about finding what works for your child's unique sensory profile. If you have any questions about which chew might be best for your little one, we are always here to help point you in the right direction.