Wondering if chewing is a trait of autism? Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the way people communicate and experience the world around them. Every person with autism is different. Some people with autism have chewing needs, while others don’t. Similarly with regard to people with chewing needs, some will have the diagnosis or characteristics of autism and others will not.

Properties of autism

Autistic characteristics vary greatly from person to person. But there are certain characteristics that are common.

• Social communication and interaction

People with autism struggle with social communication and interaction. They may not feel comfortable in social settings such as parties, as it can be difficult to interpret verbal and nonverbal communication. Their interactions can also be socially inappropriate, when they are factually true!

• Repetitive behaviors, routines, and activities

Repeated behaviors, routines, and activities are very important for individuals with autism. Change in routine can be very disruptive. So it can certainly help to prepare for changes well in advance.

Hand fluttering, rocking, vocal sounds, and spinning are all examples of stimulation. Stimming is short for self-stimulating behavior. This is when people with autism make certain repetitive movements or sounds to calm themselves down. Stimmen is very important for self-regulation. “Stimmen is like breathing, just as natural, just as important”

• Sensory sensitivity

Sensory problems can have an impact on daily life. Someone with sensory processing problems can easily become overloaded, causing sensory overload. You can be a stimulus seeker, a stimulus avoider, or a combination of both. Someone who chews is looking for oral sensory input. This can help them regulate their sensory system.

• • Chewing need
    Chewing is related to our sensory information processing system. Many people with autism have problems in processing stimuli. Chewing is a way to self-regulate our sensory system, to prevent overstimulation and also to recover from it. Chewing can help you stay calm and focused and relieve stress and anxiety.

Chewing need as a trait of autism?

After this explanation, I come back to the question ‘whether chewing is a trait of autism?’ The answer to this The answer is yes, chewing may be a hallmark of autism, but this will not be the case for everyone with autism. While not every person with autism will be a chewer, many people with autism feel the need to chew. There are many people with chewing needs who are not autistic and therefore also benefit from chewing needs.

Bite chains are a good alternative for chewing needs

Do you or your child need chewing? Then a chewing chain can be a safe alternative. Be sure to take a look at our website.

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