Early Signs and Symptoms in Children

Chewing Behaviors in Autism: Early Signs and Symptoms in Children

Many children with autism exhibit unusual behaviors, one of which is persistent chewing. It often prompts a lot of worries for their parents and caregivers. While some may say it seems innocuous, in autistic children, chewing behaviors can provide some significant pointers to what could be occurring about sensory processing problems and some related symptoms of autism.

In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between chewing behaviors and autism, why children engage in these behaviors, and how parents can support their child’s sensory needs.

What Are Chewing Behaviors in Autistic Kids?

A common behavior in autistic children is chewing on clothing, toys, pencils, or even furniture. This is generally related to sensory processing, which characterizes the disorder ASD. In essence, it refers to how the brain interprets and responds to the sensory inputs from the environment. However, in some autistic children, this process becomes either under-stimulating or overwhelming. Such children tend to engage in behaviors such as chewing to achieve self-regulation.

Common Chewing Behaviors Seen

• Chewing on shirt sleeves or collars

• Gnawing on toys or household items

• Biting pencils, pens, or erasers during schoolwork

• Wearing chewable jewelry or sensory toys meant for oral use

Whereas some chewing is simply a characteristic of the toddler years and part of the teething process, constant chewing or heavy chewing past the toddler stage may indicate sensory-related issues commonly associated with autism.

Why Do Autistic Children Chew?

There are several reasons why chewing behaviors are common in autistic children:

1. Sensory Stimulation Needs

Many autistic children experience sensory differences, making them seek out additional sensory input to feel calm and focused. Chewing provides oral sensory feedback, which can help them regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety, or maintain focus in stimulating environments.

2. Managing Anxiety and Stress

For some children, chewing becomes a source of stress relief and helps manage anxiety. The action could be repetitive, soothing, and grounding to help children control their emotions or environment when overwhelmed.

3. Self-Regulation

A child with autism often lacks self-regulation capacity, and the ability to manage their emotional or physical response to sensory input. Chewing is a non-conscious way for them to self-regulate, often when they are in a situation where they are feeling out of regulation or overstimulated.

4. Oral Motor Development

Some autistic children have delayed oral motor skills, which can affect their speech and feeding abilities. Chewing behaviors may arise as a way to strengthen oral muscles or explore oral sensations.

Chewing Behaviors and Autism Symptoms in Children

While chewing alone is not a sure sign of autism, it is commonly one of several behaviors that, when combined, might suggest the need for further evaluation. Other common symptoms of autism in children include:

Delayed Speech or Communication: Inability to acquire language or use nonverbal communication, such as gestures and eye contact.

Repetitive Behaviors: Engaging in repetitive movements or actions, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up toys.

Sensory Sensitivities: Overreacting or underreacting to sensory input, such as sounds, lights, textures, or smells.

Social Interaction Issues: Inability to understand social cues, difficulty in building relationships, or engaging in conversations that involve a back-and-forth exchange of ideas.

Insistence on Routines: Inability to change routines, adapting to schedule changes or environment changes.

If a child has been chewing persistently and in addition, other symptoms as mentioned above, then an evaluation from a developmental pediatrician or an autism specialist might be helpful.

How to Support Chewing Behaviors in Autistic Kids

If your child is a frequent chewer, here are some ways to support them:

1. Safe Chewing Alternatives

Offer alternative, sensory-friendly options like chewable necklaces, bracelets, or toys specifically designed for oral stimulation. These tools can fulfill the need to chew safely and appropriately.

2. Identify Triggers

Observe where and when these chewing behaviors occur. Do they happen more in noisy situations, during transitions, or when the child is tired? Knowing the triggers may allow you to understand why and help you support them in the best way possible.

3. Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment

Ensure that the environment of the child supports its sensory needs. This can be achieved through supplying noise-canceling headphones offering sensory breaks during the day or using weighted blankets.

4. Oral Motor Exercise

Work with a speech therapist or occupational therapist and strengthen the muscles involved in chewing, swallowing, and speaking in oral motor exercises. Oral motor exercises reduce the need for non-functional chewing over time.

5. Emotional Regulation Support

Educate the child on simple stress management and anxiety-reducing strategies, such as deep breathing, visual schedules, or using a calm-down corner. Tools for self-regulation reduce the need for chewing.

When to Seek Professional Help

While chewing behaviors are very prevalent and often controllable, sometimes professional help may be necessary. This generally occurs if the behavior itself is destructive, interferes with daily functioning, or is associated with other concerning symptoms. Consulting a health professional will allow early intervention, providing a child with directed strategies for managing their own sensory needs and promoting total well-being.

Final Comments

Chewing behaviors in autistic kids are often more than just a habit—they can be a sign of sensory processing challenges and other autism symptoms in children. By understanding the reasons behind these behaviors and providing appropriate support, parents and caregivers can help their children navigate sensory experiences more comfortably and confidently. If you’re concerned about your child’s chewing or other developmental milestones, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.