Why are Kids Always Putting Things in Their Mouths?

Kids often chew on things as a way to self-regulate and meet sensory needs. This behavior is closely linked to how their brains process sensory input, particularly through receptors that help them regulate their body and environment. Here’s an explanation of why this happens

1. Sensory Processing and the Brain

The brain processes different types of sensory input—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—through specialized receptors. When kids chew on things, they engage their tactile receptors (those that respond to touch and pressure) and proprioceptive receptors (those that sense the position and movement of the body).

For some children, particularly those with sensory processing differences, this behavior is a way to help them organize and calm their sensory system. Chewing provides deep pressure input, which can be soothing for children who are seeking that type of sensory feedback.

2. Proprioception and Oral Sensory Needs

Chewing can also be connected to proprioception, which is the sense that allows us to feel the position of our body parts and how they’re moving. For children who seek extra proprioceptive input, chewing can offer a grounding sensation, helping them feel more centered and regulated.

This is why some children may chew on pens, toys, or their clothes—it's not just about the texture or taste; it's about the sensory input it provides to the brain. The proprioceptive feedback from chewing can help kids feel more focused and calm, especially in situations where they might be overstimulated or need to regulate their emotions.

3. Self-Soothing

Chewing also stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which can promote a sense of calm and contentment. Just like some adults might bite their nails or tap their feet when anxious, kids might chew as a way to cope with feelings of stress, anxiety, or even boredom.

4. Developmental Stages

It's also worth noting that oral exploration is a developmental milestone, especially in the early years. Infants and toddlers explore their environment with their mouths because it's one of the most direct ways to gather information. As they grow older, some children continue to chew on things as a way to meet ongoing oral sensory needs, especially if they’re under-challenged in other areas of sensory input.

5. Oral Motor Skills

Chewing also helps develop oral motor skills—the muscles involved in eating, speaking, and breathing. For some children, especially those who are still developing these skills, chewing on objects can be an important part of their oral motor development.

Chewing is a natural and common behavior for kids, but for some, it serves as a way to self-regulate, calm down, or seek extra sensory input. If this behavior becomes excessive or problematic, it could be helpful to consult an occupational therapist who specializes in sensory processing to explore strategies for addressing these needs in a healthy and effective way.

Note for Parents

As your child explores the world around them, it’s important to be mindful of potential choking hazards, especially when they are putting things in their mouths. Young children, particularly those under the age of 4, are at higher risk of choking due to their natural tendency to explore through mouthing objects. Items like small toys, food, and household objects can easily become a choking risk if they are too small, hard, or not intended for young children.

To keep your child safe, here are some quick tips:

• Check toy labels: Ensure that toys are age-appropriate and do not have small parts that could be swallowed.

• Cut food into small, manageable pieces: Foods like grapes, hot dogs, or chunks of meat should be cut into small pieces, ideally no larger than the size of a pea.

• Supervise play: Always keep a close eye on your child while they play, especially with small items.

• Know the signs of choking: Learn how to recognize and respond to choking emergencies. It’s essential to know how to perform basic first aid, including CPR.

• For more detailed information on choking hazards and safety guidelines, refer to trusted resources such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) or the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These organizations provide helpful guidelines on keeping your home and play areas safe.

Remember, prevention and awareness are key to ensuring your child's safety as they grow and explore!