Chewable toys have become a staple in many households, particularly those with children or individuals with sensory needs. These toys provide a unique sensory experience that can be both calming and engaging, making them a popular choice among parents and caregivers. But what exactly are chewable toys, and why do we love them so much? Let’s dive in and explore the sensory benefits and various types of chewable toys that cater to different sensory seekers.
What are Chewable Toys?
Chewable toys are specially designed toys that are safe for individuals to chew on. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, with the primary purpose of providing a safe and enjoyable chewing experience. Chewable toys can be made from soft, pliable materials like silicone or rubber, or from harder materials like wood or plastic. These toys are often brightly colored and textured, making them visually appealing and engaging for sensory seekers.
Why We Love Them
We love chewable toys for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they provide a safe and enjoyable way for individuals to satisfy their need for oral sensory input. Chewing is a natural behavior that many people, particularly children, engage in as a way to self-soothe or relieve stress. Chewable toys offer a safe alternative to chewing on non-food items like clothing or furniture, which can be dangerous or damaging.
Chewable toys also promote oral motor development and can help improve jaw strength and coordination. For individuals with oral sensory processing issues, chewing on these toys can help desensitize their mouths and provide a calming, grounding sensation. Additionally, chewable toys can be a great way to keep kids occupied and engaged, making them a popular choice for parents and caregivers.
Our Favorite Chewable Toys
The Sensory Chew Stretchy Necklace from Olugu
- A super stretchy chewable necklace that sorta resembles a telephone cord. It’s like a fidget and a chewable necklace at the same time!
The Vibrating Sensory Chew by LoveHugs
- A rechargeable vibrating chew made with a soft yet durable food grade silicone. Definitely a chew fan favorite!
ARK Textured Grabber XXT
- A super tough sensory chew for our more aggressive chewers. This chewable toy has different textures and its shape and size is able to get in to all the right places.
Sensory Benefits
Chewable toys offer a range of sensory benefits for individuals with sensory needs. The act of chewing provides proprioceptive input, which can be calming and organizing for the nervous system. Chewable toys also offer tactile input through their various textures and materials, helping to desensitize the mouth and provide a soothing sensation.
Which Kind of Sensory Seeker Would Enjoy Them?
Chewable toys are particularly beneficial for individuals who are oral sensory seekers. These individuals crave oral input and may engage in behaviors like chewing on non-food items, biting their nails, or sucking on objects. Chewable toys provide a safe and appropriate outlet for these behaviors, allowing individuals to satisfy their need for oral input without causing harm to themselves or others.
Types of Chewable Toys
There are several types of chewable toys available, each designed to cater to different sensory preferences and needs. Some popular types of chewable toys include:
- Wearables: Chewable jewelry and wearable chew pendants are designed to be worn around the neck or wrist, providing easy access to chewing when needed. These toys are often made from soft, flexible materials and come in a variety of colors and designs.
- Vibrating: Vibrating chewable toys combine the sensory benefits of chewing with the added stimulation of vibration. These toys can be particularly helpful for individuals who need additional proprioceptive input or who are sensitive to touch.
- Tubes: Chewable tubes are long, cylindrical toys that can be easily held and chewed. They come in a variety of materials, including silicone, rubber, and plastic, and can be textured or smooth depending on the user’s preferences.
Similar Things People Might Like Include:
- Chewable pencil toppers: Pencil toppers designed to be chewed on, providing oral input while writing or drawing.
- Chewable fidget toys: Fidget toys that can be chewed on, such as silicone fidget spinners or chewable worry stones.
- Chewable straws: Straws made of safe, chewable materials, which can be used for drinking or as a chewable toy.
In summary, chewable toys offer numerous sensory benefits and can be an excellent tool for individuals who seek oral input or have a strong need to chew. With various types of chewable toys available, it’s essential to choose the right one based on the individual’s sensory preferences and needs.
