A sensory chew necklace is a wearable, non-toxic device designed to be safely chewed or mouthed. Often called “chewelry,” these items provide a clean, durable alternative for individuals seeking oral sensory input. The necklace features a pendant made from a highly resilient material, allowing the user to access a regulating tool discreetly throughout the day. Its function is to serve as a self-regulation tool by redirecting the urge to chew on inappropriate items like clothing, pens, or fingernails.
The Role of Oral Sensory Input
The act of chewing is a powerful mechanism for the nervous system to achieve calm and organization. Stimulating the mouth’s sensory receptors through biting or sucking provides deep pressure, known as proprioceptive input. This input travels through the trigeminal nerve, connecting to brain areas responsible for alertness, attention, and stress regulation.
Engaging the jaw muscles activates the parasympathetic nervous system, often called the “rest and digest” system. This response helps slow the heart rate and reduce blood pressure, promoting a grounded and focused state. The rhythmic motion of chewing is a form of self-stimulatory behavior, or “stimming,” that helps manage anxiety or cope with sensory overload. By offering this controlled oral motor activity, the nervous system can better filter external stimuli and maintain a regulated emotional and cognitive state.
Populations Who Benefit from Chew Necklaces
Many groups use sensory chew necklaces to meet the need for oral stimulation. The most recognized beneficiaries are individuals with neurodevelopmental differences, such as those on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and people with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). For these users, chewing is an effective strategy for improving concentration and managing impulsive behaviors that interfere with daily tasks.
Individuals experiencing anxiety or a Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) also benefit, as oral input helps them navigate overstimulating environments. Chew necklaces are also helpful for anyone who exhibits habitual chewing, such as chronic nail-biting, teeth grinding, or chewing on clothing. Providing a safe and readily available object, the necklace redirects these actions into a functional and hygienic outlet.
Safety Standards and Material Composition
The safety of a sensory chew necklace is paramount, as it is placed directly into the mouth. Manufacturers must use materials that comply with high safety standards, most often food-grade or medical-grade silicone. This material must be certified to be free of harmful chemicals, specifically excluding lead, phthalates, and Bisphenol A (BPA).
Durability is a major safety consideration, as the material must be strong enough to resist fragmentation and prevent a choking hazard. Consumers should regularly inspect the pendant for cracks, tears, or signs of wear, replacing the item immediately if any damage is found. For the necklace cord, a breakaway clasp is a necessary design feature that ensures the cord snaps open under pressure, mitigating the risk of strangulation.
Choosing the Right Shape and Texture
Selecting an appropriate chew necklace involves matching the product’s characteristics to the user’s oral sensory preferences and chewing intensity. The texture is a significant factor, with options ranging from smooth surfaces to designs featuring bumps, ridges, or grooves. Users seeking focused sensory information often prefer textured surfaces, while a smooth finish appeals to those looking for a simple, soothing mouth feel.
Chewing intensity dictates the required firmness, with products categorized for mild, moderate, or aggressive chewers. A heavy chewer requires a denser, extra-tough material, often labeled as “XXT,” to ensure the product lasts and remains safe. The shape also matters; a long design is needed to allow the user to reach their back molars, which provides a more powerful and organizing form of proprioceptive input.