Sensory Chew Toys for Kids: Why They Chew and How to Choose
Does your child chew their sleeves, collars or pencils? Chewing, biting and sucking are a very common way for kids to get sensory input, and it can be a real source of comfort. A safe sensory chew gives them a better outlet, and you a much happier wardrobe. Here's why kids chew, and how to choose the right chew for your child.
By Sarah James, former psychology teacher, mum of two and founder of The Sensory Specialist, a Melbourne sensory store with 750+ five-star reviews.
The short answer
- The mouth has lots of nerve endings, which is why babies explore with their mouths.
- Some kids keep seeking that oral input as they grow, and many find chewing settling and calming.
- A safe sensory chew gives a better option than chewing clothes, pencils or fingers.
- Match the chew to your child: soft, medium, fabric or firm.
Why do kids chew, bite and suck?
Think about why babies are always putting things in their mouths! The mouth is packed with nerve endings, so it's one of the first ways we explore the world. Mouthing helps babies learn about shape, texture and taste, and it's also soothing.
As kids grow, most move on from mouthing. But some children still seek that oral sensory input, and keep chewing, biting or sucking on things. This is often called being an "oral sensory seeker". It's very common, and it's not naughty behaviour.
Many children find chewing settling and calming. It can be a way to:
- settle when they feel excited, nervous or overwhelmed
- stay focused during homework or quiet seated activities
- get some deep, satisfying input in busy or noisy places
- simply enjoy the feeling, the way some kids love to squeeze or spin
Lots of neurodivergent children seek out chewing, but plenty of other kids do too. Every child has their own sensory preferences. If you'd like to understand more about sensory needs, see our post on supporting my autistic child and our guide to emotional regulation tools for kids.
Why does my child chew their clothes?
This is one of the most common things parents tell us. Sleeves, collars and shirt necklines are always handy, so they become the go-to chew. Kids often chew when they're concentrating, excited, worried or tired, often without even noticing.
Telling a child to "stop chewing" rarely works, because the need is real. A better approach is to give them a safe, comfortable alternative they can choose for themselves, and to gently redirect them to it. That's where a sensory chew comes in.
How to choose the right sensory chew
Different kids have different chew preferences, so we stock a range of chews, from soft to firm. Here's a simple guide to match the chew to your child. Browse the full range in our sensory chewing toys collection.
Soft and light chews
Soft / light chewersGreat for younger kids, or children who like a gentle chew without a lot of resistance.
Rainbow Cloud Chew Pendant Necklace
A soft, silicone pendant on a necklace with a safety clasp that separates easily when gently tugged. Recommended age 3+. $19.95.
Shop the Rainbow Cloud
Watermelon Chew Pendant Necklace
A juicy, bright watermelon slice in food-grade silicone, on a necklace with an easy-release safety clasp. Suitable for ages 3+. $19.95.
Shop the Watermelon
Silicone Pencil Chew Topper (3 pack)
Slides onto a pencil, a safer option than chewing pens, clothes or fingers during schoolwork. For light chewing only. Not for children under 3. $18.95.
Shop pencil toppersMedium chews
Medium chewersA good everyday option, between a soft chew and a firmer one.
Unicorn Pendant Peach
A medium-chew silicone necklace with a smooth, round shape that looks cute and discreet. Safety clasp included. Recommended age 3+. $19.95.
Shop the Unicorn Pendant
Pickle Pendant
A cool, quirky pickle in sunglasses with a textured front and back, in food-grade silicone. Comes on a necklace with an easy-release safety clasp. $19.95.
Shop the Pickle Pendant
Dinosaur Chew Pendant Necklace
A fun dinosaur design in food-grade silicone, made as a safe alternative to chewing clothing, pencils or fingers. Two colourways. Suitable for ages 3+ with supervision. $19.95.
Shop the DinosaurFor kids who chew their clothes
Clothes chewersIf your child is always chewing sleeves and collars, try a fabric chew to replace them.
Absorbent Sensory Chew (set of 6)
A soft fabric chew made to replace chewing on clothes. It soaks up drool to help keep shirts dry, and it's reusable and machine washable. For moderate chewers. $43.95.
Shop the Absorbent ChewFirm chews for strong chewers
Firm chewersStrong chewers need something sturdier and more durable. These suit older kids, teens and adults.
Block Pendant Blue (Firm Chew)
A discreet, minimalist firm-chew necklace with raised bumps on one side and a smooth surface on the other. Great for older kids and tweens. $19.95.
Shop the Block Pendant
Organic Chew Pendant Necklace
One of Jellystone's original, award-winning designs, made from sturdy food-grade silicone. For primary schoolers up to adults. Not for under 3s. $19.95.
Shop the Organic PendantNot sure which suits your child? Try watching how they chew. Do they nibble gently, chomp hard, or chew their clothes? Then pick the closest match. An occupational therapist can also help you choose.
Safety tips for sensory chews
- Check the age. Most chews are recommended for ages 3 and up, as they can be a choking hazard for under 3s. Always check the age on each product.
- Supervise. Use chews with adult supervision, especially when your child is new to them.
- Check them regularly. Chews aren't indestructible. Look for wear, cracks or tears, and replace them if they're damaged.
- Choose a safety clasp. Our Jellystone necklaces have a clasp that separates easily when gently tugged or snagged.
- Keep them clean. Wash silicone chews with warm soapy water, and follow the care instructions on each product.
More ways to meet sensory needs
Chewing is just one way kids seek sensory input. If your child also loves to squeeze, fidget or crash, you might like our fidget toys, classroom fidgets and calming sensory tools. Heading back to school? Don't miss our back to school sensory resources guide.
Sensory chews: frequently asked questions
Why do kids chew on their clothes?
The mouth has a lot of nerve endings, which is why babies put everything in their mouths. Some children keep seeking that oral sensory input as they grow. Chewing, biting and sucking can feel settling and calming, so a child may chew their sleeves, collars or shirts, especially when they are concentrating, excited or feeling big emotions. Many neurodivergent children chew, but plenty of other children do too. Offering a safe chew can give them a better outlet.
What is a sensory chew?
A sensory chew is a safe item made to be chewed, such as a silicone chew necklace, a chewable pencil topper or an absorbent fabric chew. It gives children who like oral sensory input something appropriate to chew and bite instead of clothing, pencils or fingers.
How do I choose the right chew for my child?
Match the chew to how your child chews. Soft or light chewers suit soft silicone pendants and pencil toppers. Medium chewers suit a medium-grade silicone pendant. Children who chew their clothes may prefer an absorbent fabric chew that soaks up drool. Firm chewers need something stronger and more durable, such as a firm-grade pendant. Every child is different, so you may need to try a couple of options.
What age can kids use chew necklaces?
Most chew necklaces and pencil toppers are recommended for ages 3 and up, as they can be a choking hazard for children under 3. Always check the recommended age on each product, and supervise use. Some chews, such as the Organic Pendant, are suitable for primary schoolers through to adults.
Are sensory chews safe?
Sensory chews made from food-grade silicone that is BPA-free are designed for chewing, and necklaces should have a safety clasp that separates easily when gently tugged. Chews are not indestructible, so use them with adult supervision, check them regularly for wear or damage, and replace them if they are damaged.
Can teenagers and adults use sensory chews?
Yes. Many older kids, teens and adults enjoy a discreet sensory chew. Firmer, minimalist designs such as the Block Pendant and the Organic Pendant suit older chewers who want a more grown-up look.
Have questions about which chew is right for your child? Get in touch. We're happy to help.