Perhaps you are unsure whether a chewing chain is suitable for your child, whether a chewing chain may not promote chewing or whether a bite chain is safe for your child? These are very understandable doubts that you can have as a parent in the consideration process of whether or not to purchase a chewing chain. In this blog I want to zoom in on the importance of a chew chain and briefly address the above questions.

What is the added value of a Chew Chain?

As a parent, you want nothing more than for your child to feel comfortable and happy. However, some children have difficulty with self-regulation, for example children with autism or ADHD. They can become overstimulated by internal stimuli, but also by the many external stimuli. Because they have difficulty processing the stimuli, stress, frustration or anxiety can increase and they can express this in chewing on objects such as clothing, pencils or even their hands. This is one way in which they then help regulate themselves. Compare it to a baby sucking on the thumb or teat to calm himself.

Chewing or sucking has a calming effect and helps regulate the nerves. The tactile experience of chewing on the chewing chain gives the brain a certain feedback that helps reduce stress. This ensures that your child feels more balanced and can better deal with overstimulation.

Many children with sensory information processing problems tend to chew on everything they come across, from clothes to furniture (here a toddler chewing the edge of the cot). Biting not only damages things (and may also cause your child to ingest harmful substances) but also evokes negative reactions from the environment. A chewing chain offers a solution to this problem. You can explain your child’s need to chew to those around him and offer your child a safe alternative to reduce the habit of chewing on inappropriate objects. Additionally, chew chains can be chosen in a variety of colors and shapes, making them attractive and fun to wear.

How safe is a Chew Chain?

A chew chain is made of safe, durable material such as medical or food-grade silicone. A bite chain is designed to be worn and to be chewed safely. The Chewing Jewelry in our collection meets European safety requirements. They are free of BPA, PVC, lead and latex.

Chewing on objects can pose a risk if the materials are not safe (think of paint, metal, wood splinters, etc.). Therefore, it is important to choose a chew chain that is specifically designed for this purpose and made of non-toxic, durable materials. This ensures that your child can chew safely without worrying about harmful substances.

Why a chew chain can be a good choice for your child

Buying a chew chain for your child, in addition to the worries about excessive chewing, can actually help your child to meet the chewing need in a safe way that helps your child to de-stimulate. Whether your child has sensory information processing issues, is anxious, or just needs extra support to self-soothe, a chew chain can be a simple yet effective tool. It is important that you also explain to your child and environment what the usefulness of the bite chain is, so that it is accepted.

Sometimes when introducing the chewing chain, it is seen that children chew a little more, that is because it is new, if the impression remains that there is more habitual chewing, you can make agreements at what times your child wears the chain, for example in class or while doing homework.

If you notice that your child has difficulty with self-regulation or has a constant need to chew, consider buying a chew chain. It may be a small object, but it can make a big difference in their daily lives.