A practical guide for parents new to sensory tools.
As a parent, you’ve probably seen it before: a child with the collar of their shirt stretched and wet, the end of a pen chewed to bits, or fingernails bitten down to the quick. This common behaviour often leaves parents wondering why it’s happening and what they can do to help. The answer, in many cases, is a simple, safe, and effective tool: a sensory chew necklace.
If you’re new to the world of sensory tools, here’s a quick guide to what a sensory chew necklace is and how it can make a difference for your child.
What is a Sensory Chew Necklace?
A sensory chew necklace is a safe, wearable, and discreet alternative for children who have a need to chew. Unlike unsafe items like clothing, plastic pens, or toys, these necklaces are made from 100% food-grade silicone—the same material used in baby bottle teats and dummies. This means they are non-toxic, free from BPA, phthalates, and lead, and are designed specifically for oral input.
These necklaces provide a safe and socially acceptable way for children to get the sensory feedback their bodies crave, helping them to feel calm and regulated throughout the day.
Who Can Benefit from a Chew Necklace?
While these tools are widely used by children with sensory processing disorders, autism, or ADHD, their benefits extend to a much broader range of children. A child who chews on their clothes or objects may be seeking oral stimulation to help with:
- Focus: Chewing can help a child filter out distractions and stay on task in a classroom or during homework.
- Anxiety & Stress: It provides a predictable, calming outlet for nervous energy in unfamiliar or overwhelming situations.
- Self-Regulation: It helps to satisfy a natural need for oral sensory input, which can prevent them from chewing on unsafe items.
The Benefits: More Than Just a Toy
Introducing a sensory chew necklace can have a profound impact on a child’s day-to-day life:
- Promotes Safety: It protects teeth from damage and prevents children from ingesting chemicals or choking on small, non-food items.
- Encourages Independence: By giving a child a designated tool for their needs, you empower them to self-regulate without constant redirection.
- Boosts Confidence: Because they are designed to look like fashionable pendants or pieces of jewellery, they are discreet and help a child feel confident using a tool that helps them focus.
Choosing the Right Chew Necklace
When selecting a chew necklace, there are a few key things to consider:
- Material: Always ensure it’s made from food-grade, non-toxic silicone.
- Chew Strength: Chew necklaces come in different levels of hardness, often referred to as chew strengths. A light chewer might do well with a softer, more flexible design, while an aggressive chewer would need a more durable, firmer option.
- Style: With a variety of shapes, colours, and designs available, you can find one that your child will love and be proud to wear.
We have a wide range of styles to suit every child in our full range of sensory chew necklaces.
A sensory chew necklace is a simple, practical, and effective tool that can provide a world of difference for a child in need of oral sensory input. By giving them a safe and designated option, you’re helping them to self-regulate, focus, and feel more comfortable in their daily life.