Autism Chewing Toys: Best Options by Age, Sensory Needs & Budget

Key Points:

• Autism chewing toys offer sensory benefits that can help reduce anxiety and focus issues in children.
  
  
• Chewing toys come in a range of types, tailored to different age groups, sensory needs, and budgets.
  
  
• The right toy can help address behavioral challenges by offering a safe outlet for chewing urges.
  

Chewing is a common behavior in many children with autism, often driven by sensory needs, stress, or boredom. For kids on the autism spectrum, chewing can become a repetitive and comforting action that helps regulate emotions and sensory input. This can sometimes be problematic if it leads to destructive chewing on non-food items, such as clothing or furniture. Thankfully, autism chewing toys offer a safe and effective alternative, allowing children to meet these sensory needs in a more controlled way.

Chewing toys come in all shapes and sizes, catering to various age groups and sensory preferences. Selecting the right toy not only satisfies a child's chewing urges but can also provide calming benefits. This is especially true for children who use chewing as a way to self-regulate. However, understanding the different types available is key to making an informed choice.

Autism Chewing Toys: An Overview

When choosing autism chewing toys, parents and caregivers should focus on a few essential factors. These include the child’s age, sensory needs, and the level of durability needed for the toy. For instance, a younger child may require a softer toy that’s easier to chew, while an older child may prefer something more resilient and complex. Likewise, some children may have heightened sensory sensitivities and need specific textures or designs to help them self-soothe effectively.

Autism chewing toys are not just a one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal toy will depend on how a child experiences the world and how their senses are engaged. Many of these toys are designed to help with oral stimulation, which is linked to regulating sensory input, helping children focus, or calming them down when overwhelmed.

Benefits of Autism Chewing Toys

Chewing toys are more than just a way for children to get some relief—they can be pivotal in addressing sensory processing issues. Here are some key benefits of using autism chewing toys:

1. Sensory Regulation
   Many children on the spectrum struggle with sensory overload or under-stimulation. Chewing toys provide the necessary oral sensory input, helping children calm down and focus during overwhelming situations.
   
   
2. Improved Focus and Attention
   For children who have trouble concentrating, using a chewing toy during tasks like homework or therapy can help them stay grounded and improve attention span by providing a physical outlet for their excess energy.
   
   
3. Stress Relief
   Chewing can also act as a natural stress reliever. Many children with autism find comfort in repetitive motions, and chewing toys provide a healthy, safe outlet for this need.
   
   
4. Improved Oral Motor Skills
   They can help with the development of oral motor skills, which are vital for speech development and feeding. They encourage the use of jaw and tongue muscles, improving coordination.
   
   
5. Reduction of Self-Injurious Behavior
   In some cases, children with autism may engage in self-injurious behavior, such as biting themselves or others. A chewing toy provides a safer alternative for them to meet these needs without causing harm.

Autism Chewing Toys by Age

Chewing toys come in various shapes and sizes designed to meet the developmental needs of children of all ages. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for based on your child’s age group:

1. Infants and Toddlers (0-3 Years)

Infants and toddlers are at a stage where they explore the world by putting things in their mouths. Chewing toys for this age group need to be soft, non-toxic, and easy to grip. Look for designs that are free of small parts that could be choking hazards. Silicone and rubber materials are excellent choices for teething toddlers.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Soft silicone teethers
    
    
  • Textured rings for easy gripping
    
    
  • Bumpy teething toys for tactile stimulation
    
    

2. Preschoolers (3-5 Years)

Preschoolers are beginning to develop more advanced chewing habits. At this stage, a child may chew for both sensory input and stress relief. Toys that offer varying textures and shapes to keep them engaged are ideal. Consider toys that are still safe but more resilient than those for toddlers.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Chewable pencil toppers or jewelry
    
    
  • Silicone chewable animals
    
    
  • Chew tubes or pendants
    
    

3. School-Age Children (5-12 Years)

As children grow, their chewing habits may become more deliberate and frequent, especially during school activities or structured therapy. Chew toys for this age group should be durable, yet safe for extended use. Some toys may include multi-sensory components to keep children engaged for longer periods.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Chewable bracelets or wristbands
    
    
  • Stronger silicone chewable toys
    
    
  • Fidget spinner and chew toy combos
    
    

4. Teens and Adults (12+ Years)

Older children and teens may need chewing toys for relaxation or to help with focus during high-stress activities. Many teens prefer discreet options like chewable necklaces or clips that they can wear throughout the day. Durability is especially important, as older kids may chew harder or longer.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Chewable necklaces with a more mature design
    
    
  • Clip-on chew toys for easy attachment to backpacks or clothing
    
    
  • Discreet silicone chews designed for stress relief
    
    

Autism Chewing Toys by Sensory Needs

Chewing toys can also be selected based on your child’s specific sensory needs. Some children need more intense input, while others may need something gentler. Here’s a look at how to choose toys based on sensory preferences:

1. Mild Sensory Needs

Children with mild sensory processing needs may prefer softer, smoother textures and gentle chewing. Silicone toys are often a great choice here, as they provide a bit of resistance without being overwhelming.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Smooth silicone balls
    
    
  • Soft, chewy tubes
    
    
  • Textured bite-sized toys
    
    

2. Moderate Sensory Needs

Kids with moderate sensory needs often benefit from chew toys with multiple textures or designs. These toys offer both sensory input and tactile stimulation, engaging multiple senses at once.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Multi-textured silicone necklaces
    
    
  • Chewable animal-shaped toys with bumps and ridges
    
    
  • Soft rubber balls with raised textures
    
    

3. Intense Sensory Needs

For children with intense sensory needs, harder, more durable toys might be required. These toys are designed to withstand aggressive chewing and provide more sensory stimulation.

• Examples:
  
  
  
  • Harder rubber chew toys
    
    
  • Chewable necklaces with more rigid shapes
    
    
  • Heavy-duty chew tubes
    
    

Budget-Friendly Autism Chewing Toys

Parents often want to make sure they get the best value without sacrificing quality. There are many affordable options that still meet the sensory needs of children with autism. Here are a few ways to save without compromising:

1. Look for Multipacks
   Many brands offer multipacks of chewing toys, providing more options at a reduced price per unit.
   
   
2. DIY Options
   There are also DIY options, such as making your own silicone chewable necklaces or using safe, inexpensive materials like rubber bands and straws.
   
   
3. Buy in Bulk
   Some stores offer discounts when you buy chewing toys in bulk. This can be especially helpful for kids who go through toys quickly.
   
   
4. Check for Sales or Coupons
   It’s always worth checking for sales, promotions, or coupons when buying chew toys online or in stores.
   
   

FAQ

Why does my autistic child constantly chew?

Chewing may be a sensory-seeking behavior for children with autism. It can help them self-regulate, relieve anxiety, or focus their attention. If your child frequently chews, consider providing appropriate toys to help manage this behavior.

How do chew toys help autism?

Chew toys help by offering a safe outlet for oral sensory input, which can help children with autism stay calm, focus, and develop oral motor skills. They can also reduce the urge to chew on inappropriate items, like clothing or furniture.

Is chewing on things a sign of autism?

Chewing is a common behavior in children with autism but can also be observed in children without autism. It’s typically a self-regulating behavior that offers sensory input, especially for children who may struggle with sensory processing.

Support Your Child’s Needs with Expert ABA Therapy

If your child is constantly chewing, you’re not alone—and it’s not just a phase. For many parents, it’s heartbreaking to watch their child struggle to find comfort or focus, especially when the chewing leads to ruined shirts, bitten fingers, or safety concerns. 

Chewing is often your child’s way of coping with a world that can feel overwhelming. The right tools—like thoughtfully chosen chew toys—can make a real difference. And when those tools aren’t enough, know that there’s help. At Supportive Care ABA, we provide compassionate, individualized ABA therapy in North Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma, Virginia, and Indiana—helping children develop stronger coping skills, reduce anxiety, and thrive at home, in school, and in the community. Reach out today to learn how we can support your child’s journey.

‍