Why Kids Chew on Clothes, Blankets, and Everything Else (And How to Help)
Every parent has experienced that moment: You glance over at your child and notice they’re quietly gnawing on their shirt collar, blanket edge, or even a stuffed animal’s ear. At first, it might seem harmless—maybe even a little endearing. But when fabric-chewing becomes a frequent habit, it can raise concerns. Why do some children develop this behavior, and when should adults step in? Let’s unpack the reasons behind this common yet puzzling habit and explore practical ways to address it.
Understanding the Why: Common Causes
Children chew on fabrics for a variety of reasons, and most stem from natural developmental processes. Here are the most common explanations:
1. Teething Discomfort
For infants and toddlers, chewing is often linked to teething. The pressure of biting down helps soothe sore gums as new teeth emerge. While teething toys are designed for this purpose, a soft blanket or shirt sleeve might feel just as satisfying—especially if the child hasn’t learned to differentiate between “chewable” and “non-chewable” items.
2. Sensory Seeking
Some children crave oral sensory input. Chewing provides a calming, organizing effect for kids who feel overwhelmed by their environment or understimulated. This is particularly common in neurodivergent children, such as those with autism or ADHD, but it can also occur in neurotypical kids who simply enjoy the texture or rhythm of chewing.
3. Anxiety or Stress
Just like adults might bite their nails or fidget when nervous, children often use repetitive behaviors to self-soothe. A child facing transitions (like starting daycare), social challenges, or family changes might unconsciously turn to fabric-chewing as a coping mechanism.
4. Habit Formation
Sometimes, the behavior starts for one reason (like teething) and continues purely out of habit. The child may not even realize they’re doing it—it becomes an automatic response during downtime or concentration.
When to Be Concerned
While occasional chewing isn’t harmful, prolonged or intense fabric-chewing can pose risks:
– Choking hazards from loose threads or buttons.
– Dental issues if hard objects (like zippers) are involved.
– Social challenges if peers notice and comment on the habit.
Additionally, if chewing is accompanied by other behaviors—like avoiding food, delayed speech, or extreme sensitivity to textures—it may signal underlying sensory processing differences worth discussing with a pediatrician.
Gentle Strategies to Redirect the Habit
1. Offer Safe Alternatives
Introduce chewable jewelry or silicone teethers designed for older kids. These come in discreet, age-appropriate styles (necklaces, bracelet charms) that satisfy oral needs without damaging clothing. For younger children, textured teething toys or frozen washcloths can work wonders.
2. Address Root Causes
Identify triggers: Is your child chewing more during screen time, homework, or transitions? If it’s stress-related, teach alternative calming techniques like deep breathing or squeezing a stress ball. For sensory seekers, incorporate activities that engage other senses—playdough, crunchy snacks, or weighted blankets.
3. Create a “Chew-Friendly” Zone
Designate a cozy corner with soft blankets meant for chewing. Pair this space with a verbal cue like, “Let’s snuggle your special blanket,” to gently redirect from clothing. Over time, the child learns to associate the habit with a specific safe object.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
Avoid shaming (“Stop ruining your shirts!”), which can increase anxiety—and the chewing. Instead, praise efforts to use alternatives: “I love how you remembered your chew necklace today!” Sticker charts or small rewards can motivate older kids.
5. Make Clothing Less Tempting
Opt for snug-fitting collars or sleeves, or add a distracting element like a decorative patch. For toddlers, reversible shirts with silicone teething tabs sewn into the hem are commercially available.
When to Seek Professional Support
If the habit persists despite your efforts, consult:
– A pediatric dentist to rule out jaw or dental issues.
– An occupational therapist (OT) for sensory integration strategies.
– A child psychologist if anxiety appears to be the driver.
Many OTs, for example, use “oral motor diets”—customized plans involving specific chewing exercises or tools—to meet sensory needs safely.
The Bigger Picture: Patience Is Key
Most children outgrow fabric-chewing as they develop better emotional regulation and oral motor skills. In the meantime, approach the habit with curiosity rather than frustration. As Dr. Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist, notes: “What looks like a ‘problem behavior’ is often a child’s best attempt to communicate an unmet need.”
By providing compassionate support and targeted tools, you’re not just stopping a quirky habit—you’re teaching lifelong skills in self-awareness and coping. And who knows? That raggedy blanket your child cherishes today might become a sweet reminder of how far they’ve grown tomorrow.
So next time you spot those little teeth tugging at a shirt collar, take a breath. With time and the right approach, this phase will weave itself into the larger tapestry of childhood—thread by thread.
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