Why Children Chew on Clothes, Blankets, and Bedding (And How to Help Them)
It’s a common sight for parents: a toddler gnawing on a shirt collar, a preschooler nibbling the edge of a blanket, or a child absently chewing their bedsheets. While this behavior can seem odd or even concerning, it’s often a normal part of development. Let’s explore why kids engage in this habit and how caregivers can address it with patience and understanding.
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Why Do Kids Chew on Fabric?
Children chew on clothing, blankets, or bedding for a variety of reasons. Understanding the “why” behind the behavior is the first step to addressing it effectively.
1. Oral Exploration
Babies and toddlers use their mouths to explore textures, tastes, and sensations. This phase, linked to oral sensory development, often continues into early childhood. Chewing soft fabrics like cotton or fleece can feel soothing, similar to how a pacifier or teething toy might.
2. Self-Soothing
Chewing releases tension and provides comfort. For some kids, the rhythmic motion of gnawing on fabric helps regulate emotions during stress, boredom, or fatigue. It’s a coping mechanism akin to thumb-sucking or hair-twirling.
3. Sensory Needs
Children with sensory processing differences may seek out oral stimulation to manage over- or under-stimulation. For example, a child who feels overwhelmed by a noisy environment might chew their shirt to ground themselves.
4. Teething or Oral Discomfort
While teething is most common in infants, some children experience discomfort as their molars emerge (around ages 2–3 or 6–7). Chewing soft items can temporarily relieve sore gums.
5. Habit or Boredom
Sometimes, the behavior starts as a random action and becomes a habit. A child might chew their sleeve during long car rides or while watching TV simply because they’re understimulated.
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Practical Strategies to Redirect the Habit
Instead of scolding or punishing a child for chewing—which can increase anxiety and reinforce the behavior—try these proactive approaches:
1. Offer Safe Alternatives
Provide chewable items designed for oral stimulation, such as silicone necklaces, textured teethers, or chewable pencil toppers. Let your child pick a design they like (e.g., a dinosaur or star shape) to encourage use. For older kids, sugar-free gum or crunchy snacks (apple slices, pretzels) can satisfy the urge.
2. Identify Triggers
Notice when and where the chewing happens. Does it spike during transitions, homework time, or screen time? If stress is a trigger, teach calming techniques like deep breathing or squeezing a stress ball. If boredom is the cause, engage them with a fidget toy or hands-on activity.
3. Create a Consistent Routine
Children often seek oral stimulation when they’re tired or hungry. Ensure they’re well-rested and offer regular snacks with a mix of textures (e.g., yogurt with granola, celery sticks with hummus).
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise your child when they use a chew toy instead of clothing. Try a reward chart: “Every time you chew your necklace instead of your shirt, you earn a sticker. Ten stickers mean a trip to the park!”
5. Address Sensory Needs
If your child seems to crave intense sensory input, incorporate activities that engage their whole body, like jumping on a trampoline, playing with playdough, or swinging. Occupational therapy may also help children with persistent sensory-seeking behaviors.
6. Make Clothing Less Tempting
Some fabrics or clothing tags can trigger chewing. Opt for tagless shirts, or trim irritating seams. For a child who chews collars or sleeves, try layering clothes (e.g., a snug undershirt beneath a button-up) to reduce access.
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When to Seek Professional Guidance
While occasional fabric-chewing is harmless, consult a pediatrician or dentist if:
– The habit persists past age 5–6.
– It interferes with social interactions (e.g., teasing at school).
– Your child swallows fabric fibers or damages their teeth.
– It’s accompanied by other behaviors like hair-pulling, skin-picking, or delayed speech.
In some cases, chronic chewing may signal underlying issues like anxiety, sensory processing disorder, or nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low iron). A professional can rule out medical causes and suggest tailored interventions.
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A Note for Worried Parents
It’s easy to feel frustrated or embarrassed when your child chews their clothes, especially in public. Remember, this phase is rarely permanent. Most children outgrow it as they develop better emotional regulation and communication skills. Avoid shaming (“Stop that—it’s gross!”) and instead frame solutions positively: “Let’s find something safer to chew on.”
By meeting your child’s sensory or emotional needs with empathy, you’ll help them build healthier coping strategies—and maybe save a few shirts along the way.
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Every child is unique, so stay flexible and patient as you experiment with strategies. With time and support, chewing habits often fade, leaving both kids and parents more comfortable and confident.
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