Why does my child keep on putting things in their mouth?
Educational and Fun Activities
Written by Liam White
20 November 2024
đź•“ 8 min
Children exploring the world through their mouths is a behaviour that often puzzles parents. Known as mouthing, this phase is a normal and expected part of development in infancy and early childhood. However, if your child continues this behaviour beyond the typical age, it may raise questions about what it means and how to respond. This blog explores the reasons behind mouthing, its developmental significance, and strategies parents can use to guide their children while ensuring their safety.
Understanding Why Children Mouth Objects:
Mouthing is a natural behaviour in children, particularly during infancy and toddlerhood. Babies use their mouths as a primary sensory organ to explore their surroundings, much like adults use their hands. This behaviour typically begins around 3-4 months of age and peaks between 6-12 months. There are several reasons for this phase:
- Sensory Exploration: A child’s mouth is highly sensitive, making it an effective tool for understanding textures, shapes, and tastes. By mouthing objects, children gather important information about the world around them.
- Teething Discomfort: When teething begins, the gums become sore and inflamed. Mouthing objects provides relief by applying pressure to the gums, soothing discomfort.
- Self-Soothing Mechanism: Some children mouth objects as a way to calm themselves, particularly during stressful or overwhelming situations.
- Curiosity: Children are naturally curious and often explore unfamiliar items by mouthing them.
While this behaviour is typical in younger children, mouthing can extend into later childhood for specific reasons, such as sensory processing needs or developmental delays.
When Does Mouthing Become a Concern?
For most children, mouthing diminishes as they grow older and gain other means of exploring their environment. By the age of 2-3 years, mouthing behaviour usually decreases significantly. However, persistent mouthing beyond this stage can signal underlying issues that may require attention.
- Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): Some children have heightened sensory needs and use mouthing to regulate their sensory input. For example, they may seek oral stimulation to feel calm or focused.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: In some cases, persistent mouthing can indicate deficiencies in key nutrients, such as iron or zinc, prompting the body to seek unusual sources of stimulation.
- Developmental Delays: Children with delays in cognitive or emotional development may continue mouthing objects as part of their exploratory behaviour.
- Oral Fixation: Anxiety, stress, or boredom can lead to oral fixations where children habitually place objects in their mouths as a coping mechanism.
If you’re concerned about persistent mouthing, it’s a good idea to consult a paediatrician or occupational therapist for guidance and assessment.
How to Respond to Your Child’s Mouthing Behaviour:
Addressing mouthing behaviour depends on the child’s age and reasons for doing it. For infants and toddlers, mouthing is usually harmless and part of their natural development. However, as children grow, it’s essential to encourage safer ways of exploration.
- Provide Safe Alternatives: Offer age-appropriate teethers, chewable toys, or textured items designed for mouthing. This ensures your child can satisfy their oral needs without risking choking or exposure to harmful substances.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Since young children often put objects in their mouths, keeping their environment clean and free from small, hazardous items is crucial. Regularly disinfect toys and other items within their reach.
- Encourage Other Sensory Activities: Redirect your child’s sensory exploration by introducing activities like water play, finger painting, or sensory bins. These can help meet their sensory needs in a safer and more appropriate way.
- Set Boundaries: For older children, gently remind them of the importance of keeping non-food items out of their mouths. Reinforce this with positive reinforcement when they avoid mouthing objects.
- Observe Patterns: Pay attention to when and why your child mouths objects. For instance, do they do it when they’re tired, bored, or anxious? Identifying triggers can help you address the root cause.
The Science of Sound programmes often incorporate sensory-friendly activities that engage children’s tactile and auditory senses, providing an alternative to mouthing as a form of exploration.
Creating a Safe and Stimulating Environment:
Children are naturally curious, and mouthing is just one way they explore their surroundings. To channel this curiosity safely, it’s important to create an environment that stimulates their senses while minimising risks.
- Choose Non-Toxic Items: Ensure that all toys and objects your child has access to are made from non-toxic materials. Check for safety certifications on teethers, chewable toys, and other items.
- Rotate Toys and Objects: Introducing new toys or sensory items regularly keeps your child engaged and reduces the need to explore inappropriate items.
- Monitor Your Child’s Play: While it’s impossible to watch your child at all times, supervision during playtime can help prevent mouthing hazardous objects.
- Use Music and Sounds: Activities involving music, rhythm, and sounds provide auditory stimulation and can divert a child’s attention from mouthing. The Science of Sound’s programmes include musical games that captivate children’s curiosity while enhancing their sensory and cognitive skills.
When to Seek Professional Help:
While mouthing is typically a natural part of development, there are instances when professional support may be needed. If your child continues mouthing objects past the age of 3, or if the behaviour seems excessive or compulsive, it may be worth consulting experts.
Occupational Therapists: They can evaluate your child’s sensory needs and recommend strategies or tools to manage mouthing behaviour.
Paediatricians: Nutritional deficiencies or medical concerns may contribute to mouthing. A paediatrician can assess and address these issues.
Speech Therapists: If mouthing is linked to delayed oral-motor skills or speech development, a speech therapist can help strengthen these areas.
The Science of Sound’s sensory-friendly activities are often recommended by therapists as part of holistic approaches to addressing mouthing and other sensory behaviours.
Conclusion
Mouthing is a normal developmental phase, but understanding its causes and addressing any underlying needs is crucial for your child’s growth and safety. Whether it’s sensory exploration or seeking comfort, there are ways to support your child positively and effectively.
If your child enjoys engaging their senses, they’ll love the Science of Sound’s interactive programmes. From sensory-friendly music sessions to hands-on activities, our holiday camps and after-school clubs provide the perfect environment for safe and stimulating exploration. Find out more here.
