Hey there, super parents! If you've found your way to this post, chances are you're dealing with a mini-chewer in your household. And no, I don't mean the adorable puppy you just adopted. I'm talking about your ADHD kiddo who seems to think pencils, shirt sleeves, and, well, anything they can get their hands on, are perfectly acceptable chew toys.

Maybe you've noticed your child’s shirt collars are always damp or their pencils look like they've been through a woodchipper. Perhaps you've caught them gnawing on the corner of their favorite book or even the remote control. You’re not alone in wondering if you’ve got a mini-beaver on your hands. It's bewildering, sometimes a bit frustrating, and often leaves you wondering why in the world your little one feels the need to chew on everything in sight.

First of all, take a deep breath. This is a super common behavior among children with ADHD, and it’s not a reflection of poor parenting or your child trying to drive you up the wall. Instead, it’s all about how their brains process sensory information. Chewing can be a coping mechanism for them, helping to self-soothe and stay focused amidst the whirlwind of thoughts and sensations swirling around them.

You might be thinking, “Great, now I understand why my kid is chewing on everything, but what am I supposed to do about it?” Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! We're going to dive into the nitty-gritty of why this happens and, more importantly, how you can provide your child with the sensory input they crave without sacrificing every pen, shirt, and household item to the chew monster.

Before you start worrying that your child is part beaver, let’s explore the reasons behind this behavior and the effective strategies you can use to help your child channel their chewing in a more constructive way. Trust me, by the end of this post, you'll be armed with all the knowledge and tools you need to support your child’s sensory needs, and maybe, just maybe, save a few pencils in the process. Let’s get chewing!

Why Is My Kid Chewing on Everything?

First off, let’s clear the air—this is a completely normal behavior for many children with ADHD. Studies have shown that around 40-50% of children with ADHD also experience sensory processing issues. Yep, that's nearly half of our awesome kids! But why do they feel the need to chew on everything from pencils to their shirt sleeves? Let’s dig a little deeper.

So, what's going on? Many children with ADHD have Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). SPD is like having an overly sensitive alarm system. Their brains can struggle to process sensory information, which can be overwhelming and disorienting. For instance, what might be a minor distraction for most kids—a slight noise, a tag on a shirt, the flickering of a fluorescent light—can feel like a sensory assault to a child with ADHD. To cope, they seek out additional sensory input to help them feel calm and focused.

Chewing is one of the most common ways they seek this input. It might seem odd to us, but for them, chewing provides proprioceptive input to the jaw, which can be incredibly calming and organizing for their brains. Proprioception is the sense that helps us understand where our body parts are in relation to each other. When kids chew, they get strong feedback from their jaws, which helps their brain to feel more in control and organized. It’s like their way of hitting the ‘reset’ button when things get too overwhelming.

Imagine this: you're at a loud concert, and the noise and lights are making it hard to think straight. Now, someone hands you noise-cancelling headphones. Suddenly, things are quieter, and you can think again. Chewing works a bit like those headphones for our kids. It helps drown out the background noise (both literal and figurative) and lets them regain their focus.

This need to chew can be particularly pronounced in stressful situations, like at school during a test, or in a noisy, chaotic environment. It’s their brain’s way of seeking balance and comfort. Chewing helps them to self-regulate, providing a sense of control in a world that often feels out of control.

Additionally, the act of chewing activates the muscles in their jaw and face, which can produce a calming effect similar to the way deep pressure on the body can be soothing. This is why some children with ADHD will chew more when they are anxious, frustrated, or overstimulated.

So, while it might be frustrating to see yet another pencil with bite marks, understanding that this behavior is a natural and necessary coping mechanism can help you approach it with more empathy and less frustration. And the good news? There are plenty of strategies and tools to help channel this need to chew into safer, more appropriate outlets. Stick around, because we're about to explore some of those solutions and save those pencils once and for all!

The Downside of Being a Human Chew Toy

As endearing as it might be to see your child chomping away, there are some serious downsides to this behavior. Constantly chewing on everything within reach can lead to a whole host of problems that go beyond just minor annoyances.

First up, let’s talk about dental disasters. Constantly chewing on hard objects like pencils, pens, or plastic toys can seriously mess with your child’s teeth. Think chipped teeth, worn enamel, and even dental misalignment. And we all know how much we love those expensive dental visits, right? (Spoiler alert: we don’t!)

Next, there are the fashion faux pas. How many times have you pulled your child’s shirt out of the laundry only to find the collar or sleeves completely chewed through? It’s like they’re auditioning for a role in a zombie apocalypse movie! Not only is this frustrating, but replacing chewed-up clothes can also become quite the financial burden.

And let’s not forget the hygiene horrors. Kids don’t always have the best judgment about what’s safe to put in their mouths. Pencils, toys, and other objects often carry all sorts of germs and bacteria. Chewing on these can lead to infections and illnesses. Do you really want to think about where that pencil has been before it went into their mouth? Exactly. Gross!

How to Help Your Child Stop Chewing Everything in Sight

So, what's a parent to do? Thankfully, there are plenty of strategies and tools to help your child manage their chewing in a healthier and more constructive way.

Chewable Jewelry to the Rescue!

This stuff is a game changer, folks. Chewable jewelry is designed specifically for kids who need to chew. These products come in all sorts of styles and colors, from necklaces to bracelets, and they're made from food-grade silicone, so they're safe to gnaw on. Plus, they’re discreet and easy to clean. Your kid gets the sensory input they need, and you get to keep your household items intact. Win-win!

Imagine your child happily chomping away on a stylish chewable necklace instead of their shirt sleeve. Not only are these items safer and more hygienic, but they also provide the same sensory satisfaction without the drawbacks. And because they come in so many cool designs, your child can even match them with their outfits. Talk about a fashion statement! This Sensory Chew Necklace has multiple packages for your child to choose from! https://a.co/d/i9hkBIb

Snack Smart with Crunchy and Chewy Foods

Keep a stash of sensory-friendly snacks that provide the same chewing satisfaction. Think carrots, apples, pretzels, and granola bars. These can be lifesavers when your kid needs to chew but you want to keep it healthy. Plus, they're great for school lunches and on-the-go munching.

Not only do these snacks provide the oral sensory input your child craves, but they also contribute to a balanced diet. And let’s be honest, who doesn't love a good crunchy apple? By offering these healthy alternatives, you’re not just addressing the chewing need; you’re also promoting better eating habits.

Fidget Toys Aren’t Just for Hands

While fidget toys won't give the same chewing sensation, they can provide the sensory input that helps reduce the urge to chew on non-food items. Stress balls, fidget spinners, and textured toys can keep their hands busy and their minds focused. It’s all about redirecting that need in a productive way.

These toys can be particularly effective during situations where chewing isn’t appropriate, like in the classroom or at a family dinner. By keeping their hands occupied, fidget toys help channel their sensory needs into a less disruptive form of stimulation. Plus, there are so many fun and engaging options available that your child is bound to find something they love. This 50pcs Fidget Toy set has SO much to choose from for busy, little hands! https://a.co/d/0nqOHbP

Communicate and Collaborate

Have an open conversation with your child about their need to chew. Let them know you understand and work together to find solutions that feel good for them. This can also be a great time to check in with an occupational therapist for more personalized strategies. These professionals can offer tailored advice and tools that you might not have thought of.

Understanding your child’s perspective and working together to find solutions can make a world of difference. It empowers your child to take control of their sensory needs in a healthy way and strengthens your bond as you navigate these challenges together.

Tried Everything and Still Struggling??

Do you find yourself longing for support, guidance, and a listening ear? I'm here to help! Sign up for a complimentary 30-minute coaching call where we can chat one-on-one about your unique struggles and explore personalized strategies to help you navigate the ups and downs of ADHD parenting. Together, we'll uncover practical techniques, mindset shifts, and coping mechanisms to bring more peace, clarity, and joy into your family's life. Click the link below to schedule your free coaching call today—I can't wait to connect with you and support you on your parenting journey.

https://calendly.com/danielle-tmm/coaching-consultation

The Takeaway: You’ve Got This, Mama!

Remember, parents, it’s all about understanding and supporting our little ones. Chewing is just one of the many ways they navigate their world. With a bit of patience and the right tools, we can help them manage their sensory needs without chewing through everything in sight.

So, whether it’s a chewable necklace, a crunchy snack, or a stress ball, let’s give our kids the tools they need to succeed. And hey, don’t forget to share your own experiences in the comments below. Let’s support each other and keep this conversation going.

Until next time, stay strong and keep rocking that mom life! XOXO