Children chewing on various objects is a common behavior. While often a normal part of development, it can sometimes signal underlying needs. Understanding the reasons behind a child’s chewing habits helps parents respond effectively and support their child’s well-being.
Typical Developmental Phases
Chewing is a natural and expected part of early childhood development, particularly during infancy and toddlerhood. Infants often begin exploring their environment by bringing objects to their mouths around three to four months of age to learn about textures, shapes, and properties. This oral exploration helps them process sensory information and understand their world.
Teething is a primary reason for increased chewing in babies and toddlers. The pressure from chewing on safe objects can provide significant relief from gum discomfort as new teeth emerge. This self-soothing mechanism helps alleviate teething pain. Beyond teething, chewing also serves as a self-regulation strategy for young children to cope with mild stress, boredom, or to simply calm themselves.
As children grow, the mouth continues to be a source of sensory input and comfort. Sucking and chewing are deeply ingrained self-soothing techniques from infancy. This behavior can persist as a way for children to regulate emotions or manage mild anxiety.
Understanding Sensory and Behavioral Needs
Beyond typical development, persistent chewing can indicate deeper sensory or behavioral needs. Sensory seeking behaviors are common, where children may chew to receive specific oral input their nervous system craves. Children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) may seek intense oral stimulation to feel regulated. Chewing provides calming proprioceptive input to the jaw, which can be organizing for the brain.
Heightened anxiety or stress can also lead to chewing as a coping mechanism. Children may chew on objects as a physical outlet to release tension, providing comfort and distraction from anxious thoughts. The amount of chewing often increases with stress.
Chewing can also be a self-regulation strategy for children with conditions such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). For children with ADHD, chewing can help with focus and managing excess energy. In children with ASD, chewing is often a form of stimming, or self-stimulatory behavior, used to organize themselves and manage overwhelming sensory information. This oral stimulation helps reduce sensory overload and promote body awareness.
Recognizing When Professional Help is Needed
Seek professional guidance if a child’s chewing extends beyond typical development or presents safety concerns. Persistent chewing past the toddler years, especially in school-aged children, warrants attention. This includes chewing unsafe items (toxic, injurious, or choking hazards).
Damage to teeth or gums, or ingesting non-food items (pica), are clear indicators for immediate professional consultation. If chewing interferes with daily activities, learning, or social interactions, seek evaluation. A pediatrician can assess the situation and provide referrals to specialists like an occupational therapist for sensory needs or a dentist for oral health concerns.
Supportive Strategies for Parents
Provide safe and appropriate alternatives. Chew toys (chewelry) are designed for oral input, available in various textures, shapes, and strengths. Crunchy or chewy snacks like carrots, apples, or bagels can also satisfy the need for oral input.
Redirect a child’s chewing to acceptable items. If a child chews inappropriately, guide them to a designated chew toy or a safe food item. Create a safe environment by removing hazardous objects to prevent accidental ingestion or injury.
Address any underlying issues. If anxiety is a factor, calming activities or professional stress reduction techniques may lessen the need for chewing. For sensory needs, an occupational therapist can develop a “sensory diet” incorporating various sensory-rich activities. Communicate with caregivers and teachers for consistent support across different environments.