Sensory chews have been gaining popularity in the past few years as a tool for managing certain sensory behaviors in children. These chews are made of safe, non-toxic materials and are designed to provide children with a sensory experience that can help them manage their sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding behaviors. In this article, we will explore the benefits of sensory chews for children, how they work, and the different types of sensory chews available in the market.

What are Sensory Chews?

Sensory chews are devices that are designed to provide sensory input to children who are either seeking out certain sensory experiences or avoiding certain stimuli. These chews come in different shapes, sizes, and textures and are made of materials that are safe and non-toxic for children. They are designed to be chewed on, bitten, or manipulated in different ways to provide a sensory experience that can help children feel calm, focused, and centered.

How do Sensory Chews Work?

Sensory chews work by providing proprioceptive and oral sensory input to children. Proprioception refers to the sense of the body's position and movement in space, while oral sensory input is the stimulation of the mouth through chewing or biting. When children chew on sensory chews, they receive a deep, firm pressure that can help them regulate their sensory systems. This can have a calming effect and help children feel more focused and centered.

The Benefits of Sensory Chews

There are several benefits of using sensory chews for children. These include:

a. Improved Focus: Sensory chews can help children focus better in school and at home by providing them with the sensory input they need to stay alert and attentive.

b. Reduced Anxiety: Sensory chews can help reduce anxiety in children by providing them with a calming and soothing sensory experience that can help them feel more relaxed and at ease.

c. Improved Oral and Motor Skills: Sensory chews can help children improve their oral and motor skills by strengthening their jaws, mouth, and neck muscles through chewing and biting.

d. Reduced Aggression and Self-Injurious Behaviors: Sensory chews can help reduce aggressive or self-injurious behaviors in children by providing them with a safe and harmless way to satisfy their sensory needs.

Different Types of Sensory Chews

There are several different types of sensory chews available in the market today. These include:

a. Chewy Tubes: Chewy tubes are small, safe, and flexible tubes that can help children improve their oral motor skills and provide them with a calming and soothing sensory experience.

b. Oral Brush: An oral brush is a tool that can help children improve their oral motor skills by strengthening their gums and teeth. It can also provide them with a calming and relaxing sensory experience.

c. Chewelry: Chewelry is a type of chewable jewelry that can be worn around the neck or wrist. It can help children satisfy their sensory needs discreetly and safely.

d. Chew Stixx: Chew stixx are designed to provide children with a long-lasting chewing experience. They come in different textures and shapes and can be used to provide proprioceptive and oral sensory input.

Conclusion:

Sensory chews are an excellent tool for parents and caregivers looking to help children manage their sensory-seeking or sensory-avoiding behaviors. They are safe, non-toxic, and effective in providing children with the sensory input they need to regulate their sensory systems. By choosing the right type of sensory chew for your child, you can help them improve their focusing abilities, reduce anxiety, improve their oral and motor skills, and reduce aggressive or self-injurious behaviors. Sensory chews are an investment in your child's well-being and can help them feel more confident, secure, and centered.