Calming the Chaos: A Parent's Guide to Mouthing and Chewing Behaviors in Children

Apr 16

If your child is constantly putting things in their mouth—chewing on shirt sleeves, biting toys, or even gnawing on their hands—you’re not alone. Mouthing and chewing are common in young children as they explore the world around them. But when these behaviors persist beyond the toddler years or become excessive, they can be concerning for parents.

Understanding why children engage in mouthing and chewing can help you support their sensory needs while guiding them toward healthier habits. Let’s break it down and explore practical strategies to help your child feel more comfortable and regulated.

Why Do Kids Mouth and Chew on Things?

For many children, especially those with sensory processing differences (such as autism or sensory processing disorder), mouthing and chewing provide essential sensory input. It helps them self-regulate, manage anxiety, or stay focused. As occupational therapist Dipali Devani explains, “They're not getting enough stimulation to their oral cavity. So, especially with our ASD kids or anybody with sensory processing disorder, they are trying to get more input in their body to regulate.”

Triggers for mouthing and chewing can include:

Anxiety or stress
Boredom
A need for deep pressure input
Seeking comfort or self-soothing

While some level of mouthing is normal, there are signs that indicate when it’s time to seek extra support.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Mouthing and chewing behaviors are typical in children under three as they learn about their environment. However, if these behaviors persist beyond age five, it’s a good idea to consult an occupational therapist (OT).

“If they’re between 3-5, those are our biggest red flags,” Dipali says. “At that point, we shouldn’t be using a pacifier or constantly putting things in our mouth.”

Some potential concerns include:

Difficulty eating a variety of foods due to oral sensitivities
Increased risk of infections from mouthing non-food objects
Social challenges, such as peers not understanding the behavior
Damage to teeth, clothing, or household items

If your child’s mouthing is interfering with daily life, an OT can help develop a personalized plan to address their sensory needs.

How Can You Help? Strategies for Parents

The good news is there are many ways to help your child manage their sensory needs without excessive mouthing. Here are some OT-recommended strategies:

1. Swap Non-Food Items for Safe Alternatives

Consider offering specially designed chewable jewelry or sensory-friendly items. “They have nontoxic, chewable jewelry,” Dipali suggests. “It’s basically jewelry that kids can chew on, like necklaces or bracelets.”

2. Provide Oral Sensory Activities

Try activities that engage the mouth in a positive way:

Blowing bubbles – Helps with oral motor control and provides calming input.
Using an electric toothbrush – Provides vibration and sensory stimulation.
Drinking through a straw – Encourages deep sucking for oral regulation.

3. Incorporate Whole-Body Sensory Play

Mouthing behaviors often indicate a need for deeper sensory input. Activities like:

Animal walks (bear crawls, crab walks, etc.) – Provide deep pressure input.
Weighted activities – Carrying a backpack with light weights can help with sensory regulation.
Chewing crunchy or chewy foods – Carrots, dried fruit, or gum can provide oral stimulation.

4. Create a Safe Sensory Space

Designate a cozy corner with calming sensory tools like fidget toys, weighted blankets, and oral sensory options. This gives your child a go-to spot when they feel overwhelmed.

Working with an Occupational Therapist: A Step-by-Step Plan

If your child’s mouthing and chewing behaviors persist, partnering with an OT can be a game-changer. Here’s how to get started:

Schedule an evaluation – A professional can assess your child’s sensory needs.
Identify triggers – Work with the OT to pinpoint what’s causing the behavior.
Develop a sensory diet – This is a plan with daily activities tailored to help your child regulate their sensory system.
Implement interventions – This might include chewable items, sensory breaks, or weighted tools.
Stay in communication – Keep an open dialogue with your OT and adjust strategies as needed.
Use home strategies – Incorporate the OT’s suggestions into daily routines.
Monitor progress – Keep track of what’s working and what needs tweaking.

By understanding the reasons behind mouthing and chewing, recognizing when to seek help, and using the right strategies, you can help your child feel more comfortable, confident, and in control of their sensory world.

Final Thoughts

Parenting a child with sensory needs can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the right support and strategies, your child can thrive—and so can you! If you have concerns about your child’s mouthing and chewing behaviors, reaching out to an OT is a great first step toward understanding and addressing their sensory needs in a positive way.

For more insights and guidance on sensory processing and supporting children with sensory differences, subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast and connect with Dipali Devani at pureheartstherapy.com

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