Helping Autistic Children with Chewing Behavior
Helping Autistic Children with Chewing Behavior and Other Symptoms

Autistic children’s parents and guardians have to deal with a highly complex world of behaviors and symptoms that may be far more different from one child to another. One common issue is chewing behavior among autistic children. This behavior often presents itself as puzzling or concerning, but it might have an important purpose in the child’s life. We will delve into why autistic kids chew, how these chewing behaviors might fit into or be related to other autism symptoms in children, and some practical strategies for managing the behavior.
Understanding Chewing Behavior in Autistic Children
Many autistic children display repetitive behaviors, such as chewing on clothing, toys, or other non-food items. These actions are often related to differences in sensory processing, which is a common characteristic of ASD. Sensory processing is how the brain processes and reacts to the sensory information received from the environment. In some cases, chewing acts as an organizing or calming response to overstimulation or understimulation.
Why Do Autistic Kids Chew?
There are several reasons why autistic children may develop chewing behaviors:
Sensory Regulation:
Chewing helps some children regulate sensory input. The pressure and movement associated with chewing can be calming when they are overstimulated or anxious.
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Oral Sensory Seeking:
Some children have a heightened oral sensory need. Chewing provides them with the oral stimulation they seek, which may be necessary for their comfort and focus.
Self-Soothing Mechanism:
Chewing can be used as a coping mechanism in stressful situations, transitions, or when they become overwhelmed by sensory input.
Habitual or Behavioral Response:
At times, chewing can become a conditioned response that continues because it is known and comforting.
The first step to effective support for autistic children is to understand the underlying causes of these chewing behaviors.
Chewing Behaviors and Autism Symptoms in Children
There are many chewing behaviors exhibited in children who suffer from autism. Not all kids who are diagnosed with autism engage in this type of activity, and understanding where it fits in autism can be helpful.
Autism Symptoms of Common Chewing
Sensory Sensitivities
There are often heightened or diminished sensory input sensitivities associated with autism. Chewing is an example of some types of sensory difficulties that can be used as an avenue for coping.
Chewing often falls into the category of repetitive behaviors, which are common in autism. These behaviors may include hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up objects.
Communication Challenges:
Some children may chew when they are unable to express their needs verbally. It becomes a non-verbal way of signaling distress or discomfort.
Anxiety and Stress:
Chewing can be a response to anxiety or stress, especially in unfamiliar or overwhelming environments.
Strategies to Manage Chewing Behaviors
While chewing has a useful purpose, it becomes problematic when it seems to be unsafe or disrupts daily routines. Some ways to control and divert chewing behaviors in autistic children include:
1. Safe Chewing Alternatives
One of the most effective ways to address chewing behaviors is to provide safe and appropriate alternatives. Chewable necklaces, bracelets, or toys designed for sensory input can satisfy the child’s need to chew while minimizing safety concerns.
2. Identify Triggers
Pay attention to the timing and location of the child’s chewing. Does she more likely chew when stressed, in transition, or under sensory overload? Knowing your triggers can help you predict and manage the behavior more efficiently.
3. Apply Sensory Tools
Apply tools that can help control the input of the senses such as weighted blankets, fidget toys, or noise-cancelling headphones that reduce the need to chew to cope.
4. Teach Alternative Coping Skills
While chewing can be helpful, it’s also important to teach alternative coping strategies. Deep breathing exercises, squeezing a stress ball, or engaging in physical activities like jumping or swinging can offer similar calming effects.
5. Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
An environment friendly to sensory should reduce the need for chewing to calm down. Some ways include dimming lights, keeping the noise levels down, or even having a quiet corner where your child goes when overwhelmed.
6. Professional Help
If chewing behaviors persist or interfere with your child’s daily life, it may be helpful to consult with professionals. Occupational therapists, speech therapists, and behavioral specialists can provide tailored strategies to address chewing and other autism symptoms in children.
Supporting the Whole Child
It is essential to consider that chewing behaviors are one aspect, but a great deal of support, in any case, will involve knowing their full needs, from communication to social interaction to how to manage their emotions. Each child is unique; therefore, what may help one may not work on another.
With the help of safe alternatives, identifying triggers, and making it a supportive environment, you can help your child with chewing behaviors while developing other aspects of their life. Patience, understanding, and the right strategies are all that can make a difference in their life.
Chewing behaviors are a challenge, but they also provide great insight into the child’s sensory and emotional needs. If these behaviors are addressed thoughtfully and proactively, it can help support your child in navigating their world more comfortably and with greater confidence. Remember, every step you take to understand and support your child’s unique needs brings them closer to thriving in their way.
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