Overview

As children and babies grow and develop, they initially begin to explore the world around them using feel and touch - and for most babies, they do this by bringing things to the mouth! As they grow older, children begin exploring their world in other ways, such as through use of the hands and fingers.

While bringing items (e.g., collar or sleeve of a shirt, one’s fingers, toys) to the mouth may remain a source of comfort and a way to self-soothe for some children as they continue to grow, it can also lead to an increased risk of choking or of spreading germs and bacteria. Below are just some examples of how you might guide your child out of this self-soothing habit.

Tips & Tricks

• Provide alternatives! Your child may be wanting to explore other forms of oral input that provide them with a similarly soothing effect. Some alternative ideas include:

  • Use straws of different lengths and widths when eating smoothies, yogurt, juice, etc.

  • Blow bubbles with a wand, pipe, or straw

  • Blow sound makers, party horns, pinwheels, or harmonicas

  • Provide raw vegetables, popcorn, nuts, raisins or bagels as snacks

  • Make funny faces with your lips / tongue in the mirror

• Reinforce the idea that putting items in the mouth can be a choking risk and can spread germs to others.

• If you see your child chewing on their shirt collar or putting items in their mouth, provide them with gentle reminders or suggestions for other activities.

• Try providing chewy or crunchy snacks in your child’s lunch pack. These might provide the oral sensation your child is seeking throughout the day.

Video on germ spreading:

This video is a great resource to explain to children how easily germs spread and the importance of hand, as well as overall, hygiene!