A step-by-step guide for parents based on age, chewing strength & sensory needs
If your child chews their sleeves, pencils, or toys — you’re not alone. Chewing can be a powerful self-regulation tool for children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or anxiety.
But with so many chewelry options available, how do you choose the right sensory chew necklace for your child?
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you find a safe, soothing, and effective chew that meets your child’s unique needs.
🧒 Step 1: Consider Your Child’s Age & Development
Chewelry isn’t one-size-fits-all. Start by considering your child’s age and chewing habits:
- Toddlers (under 3): Not suitable for necklaces with cords — try handheld chews or supervised options only.
- Ages 3–6: Look for soft to medium textures, fabric or flexible silicone. Choose bright, playful designs that encourage use.
- Ages 7–12: Many kids this age benefit from chew necklaces that balance durability and style, especially for school use.
- Teens: Go for discreet, more mature designs they won’t feel embarrassed to wear. Neutral colours and minimal styles work well.
đź’ˇ Tip: Always choose age-appropriate materials and never leave a young child unsupervised with wearable chewelry.
đź’Ş Step 2: Assess Their Chewing Strength
Every child chews differently. Understanding your child’s chewing intensity will help you avoid frustration — and wasted money.
- Mild Chewers:
Often chew occasionally or gently, especially when anxious or bored.
âś… Recommended: Fabric chew necklaces, soft silicone pendants. - Moderate Chewers:
Chew more regularly, especially when focused or overwhelmed.
âś… Recommended: Standard silicone chew necklaces with medium firmness. - Aggressive Chewers:
Chew with intensity, often damaging clothing, toys, or even other chews.
âś… Recommended: Extra-durable, thick silicone chews specifically designed for strong jaws.
🔍 Not sure? Start with moderate and move up or down depending on how quickly the chew wears.
🧩 Step 3: Identify the Primary Sensory Need
Children chew for a reason — and identifying why can help you find the most helpful chew necklace.
- Oral Sensory Seeking:
Choose necklaces with texture, such as bumps or ridges, to provide satisfying input. - Focus & Attention:
Smooth-textured chews can help reduce distractions and aid in classroom concentration. - Anxiety & Self-Regulation:
Soft, flexible options like fabric chews are calming and familiar — perfect for quiet comfort. - Fidgeting:
Look for chew necklaces that can also be used as hand fidgets, like stretchy coils or tuggable knots.
🎨 Step 4: Pick a Style They’ll Actually Want to Wear
Let’s be honest — if your child doesn’t like how it looks, they won’t use it.
- Younger kids: Bright colours, fun shapes (e.g. superhero, brick, heart)
- Older kids/teens: More subtle colours and minimalist styles
- Fabric options: Soft, colourful, and lightweight — great for kids who dislike hard textures or want something that looks like clothing
âś… Look for chew necklaces that feel like accessories, not therapy tools.
🧼 Step 5: Make Sure It’s Safe & Easy to Clean
Look for the following features to ensure safety and practicality:
- Breakaway clasp (for quick release under tension)
- Non-toxic materials (BPA-free, phthalate-free, latex-free)
- Dishwasher safe or easy to hand wash
- Well-reviewed by parents and caregivers
đź’¬ Pro Tip: Always inspect chew necklaces regularly for wear and tear. Replace as needed to maintain safety.
đź›’ Ready to Shop the Right Chewelry?
At chewnecklace.co.uk, we offer a wide range of fabric and silicone chew necklaces designed for different ages, styles, and chewing strengths.
Browse by category or message us for personalised help. đź’š
Because choosing the right sensory chew necklace shouldn’t be overwhelming — it should be empowering.