As humans we soothe ourselves in many different ways. Self-talk, bubble baths, using tech, talking to friends, foot tapping, pen clicking, chewing gum, humming, biting nails, self hugging, folding our arms, moving around, twirling or pulling our hair, chewing pencils... the list is pretty much endless!
When babies chew it helps to ease gum pain from teething, when they twiddle with necklaces while nursing it helps to stimulate them which helps keep them from nipping and hair pulling. When being carried or held 'Chewellery' can help keep them entertained or give them something to manipulate while they drift off to sleep.
As children get older some stop chewing non food items but others don't, both are okay of course as long as the objects they are chewing aren't dangerous - I mean how many people do you know who chew their pens when working on a project or chew their nails when they are bored?
If you do have a child or dependant who likes to chew then our large Elephant Teethers are big enough and tough enough for older kids and can really help give them a safe release instead of chewing stationary, toys, clothing, bedding or other non-food items. We find them useful for bed times when boredom can lead to chewed bed covers and during lessons when chewing can help boost concentration by lessening fidgeting.
In some cases the chewing can also include the eating of non-food items - this is known as Pica and you should seek advice from a doctor if those symptoms are displayed. Although sensation seeking and safe stimming can be seen as a negative behaviour to some narrow minded people I personally believe that neurodiversity shouldn't be frowned upon or repressed as it gives a way to disperse some of the pent up energy that can otherwise end up causing anxiety or frustration.
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