Stopping the 5 year old chewing....

[SleepingStandingUp]

How? It's everything. Fingers constantly inoith, his brothers fingers, toys, his o2 tube.

Was it cos o didn't breast feed or he had a dummy too long? Google would say yes.

But regardless of why I'm to blame, how do I bloody well stop it? And saying stop it doesn't stop it.

Have you looked at chewelry? He's obviously got a need to chew, chewelry is a safe way to do that.

Have you spoken to anyone about this sensory feedback need? You mention he has an o2 tube, indicates he might have health issues and therefore you've a team you can tap into for info, maybe?

You can’t really, it’s a need that he’s fulfilling. I’m guessing since he has an o2 tube that there are some additional needs? I’d buy him a Chewigem type of chewing toy.

Its a sensory need. Oldest DS is a chewer saying stop definitely doesn't work, redirection is the best bet. Chewigem have loads of options on their website of silicone chews, all sorts of shapes and textures and they're really durable.

I was breastfed and didn't have a dummy and I too chewed everything. Still do chew pen lids, pencils, etc

Does he see an OT? They should be able to advise on ways to give him the sensory feedback he needs. Chewy tubes etc are great, but there’s lots of other stuff that could also help.

More than likely a sensory issue. My twins are autistic and both chew but for one it’s compulsive - we use the blue chewy tubes now, strongest ones I’ve found although he can still break them. You can try a sensory plan including other proprioceptive input, but they get such intense input through the mouth. You could also try one of the vibrating chew toys / an electric tooth brush.

I've suggested he chews one of th, I got th for him a few years ago, but he doesn't like them. I might try harder and speak to school.

No OT, altho awaiting a referral re fine motor skills.

Other issues is complex. Yes is short answer but whenever I list them it gets sidetracked. He does have some sensory issues, lots overcome with exposure at school but certainly affects his eating etc