What Is ‘Stimming’?

Self-stimulating behaviour (such as chewing), better known as ‘stimming’, is something that we all do to some extent.

Biting nails, twirling hair, chewing gum and cracking knuckles are all types of stimming.

Those living with autism and Sensory Processing Disorders display more frequent and sometimes dangerous forms of stimming. These can also cause physical and emotional harm.

Examples of ‘harmless’ repetitive behaviours are flapping of hands, rocking, pulling hair, repetitive words and bouncing.

More harmful behaviours can include head banging, scratching, chewing and biting.

Should Stimming Be Stopped?

It’s important to note that stimming is not behaviour for us to stop. It’s important for self-regulation and essential for releasing stress and relieving anxiety.

Stopping this behaviour could cause an individual to become withdrawn, or replace one form of stimming with a more harmful, aggressive one.

Indeed, the key is to find the trigger for the behaviour and introduce tools to help make the stimming safer and in some cases less frequent.

Stimming And COVID 19

Stimming is often a reaction to a stressful or distressing situation.

With the rise of COVID 19 we have all experienced heightened levels of stress and for some, emotionally upsetting times.

For those with autism and SPD, the sudden lack of structure, routine and familiarity has been replaced with the unknown.

This has unsurprisingly resulted in increased stimming.

One form of stimming that may have increased during COVID 19 lockdown is chewing.

This may include chewing items of clothing such as cuffs or sleeves and toys.

Additionally, it may include chewing more damaging items such as fingers, nails or objects such as chair and table legs.

What Can I Do To Help?

The question asked from many parents/carers faced with this situation is – what can we introduce to encourage safer, less aggressive chewing?

The answer, as recommended by many Occupational Therapists can be found in the form of Sensory Chews.

As parents ourselves, we can happily concur with the results of a carefully selected, safe Sensory Chew!

There are lots of Sensory Chews available on the market. What’s important to remember is every child and adult is different and has different ‘chew needs’.

Boy Chewing Red StickmanHow To Select The Right Sensory Chew

Here at Sensory Direct, we have a complete range of Sensory Chews called ‘Chewbuddy’.

These are suitable for children and adults from mild to aggressive chewers.

Furthermore, we understand that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to Sensory Chews.

We offer a complete range of varying strengths, colours, shapes and even some that provide additional sensory feedback. There’s something for everyone.

To choose the correct Sensory Chew, we recommend the following steps:

  1. Consider the chewing habits of the individual. Some of our Sensory Chews are finished in a softer material which wouldn’t be suitable for an aggressive chewer.
  2. Does the individual respond better to certain textures? We have a range of Sensory Chews with different finishes such as smooth, dimpled or ridged. These are great for additional Sensory feedback
  3. Weight is also an important consideration – some of our Sensory Chews can be worn on the wrist and when doubled up, provide a comforting weight to the individual
  4. Colour – we have a range of bright primary colours and softer tones to choose from
  5. Age – Some of our Sensory Chews are discreet and more appropriate for young adults or those wanting to wear something more subtle
  6. Consider where the Sensory Chew will be worn – we have Sensory Chews suitable for wearing on a safety lanyard around the neck or on a wrist

Selecting A Safe Sensory Chew

Safety is of great importance to us, so all our Chewbuddy Sensory Chews are:

  • Tested for compliance with all relevant safety standards (including phthalates and BPA)
  • Made from medical grade materials – NO phthalates, PVC, BPA or Latex (so safe to chew)
  • CE Marked (quality assurance)
  • Suitable for cleaning in a steriliser or dishwasher
  • Come with a safety lanyard so the Chewbuddy can be worn safely around the neck

Ready to buy your Sensory Chew? Check out our Chewbuddy range or our full range of chewies today.