How to Choose the Right Chew Pendant

At Jellystone Designs, we understand that chewing can be an important way for children to self-regulate, focus and calm their bodies.

Many children seek oral sensory input to help manage their energy levels, emotions or concentration. Chewing can provide the deep pressure their bodies are looking for in a safe and supportive way.

“Many children seek oral motor input because it helps them regulate their nervous system and manage how they feel.”
— Debbie Hopper, Occupational Therapist

Our chew pendants are designed to provide a safe alternative to chewing on clothing, pencils, hair or fingers while also being fun and stylish to wear.

Use the guide below to help you choose the chew pendant that best suits your child’s needs.

Step 1: Age Guide

Our chew pendants are recommended for children aged 3 years and older.

For children under 3, we recommend exploring our Silicone Toys range, which are designed specifically for babies and toddlers.

For children aged 3+, our Kids Chew range features cord lengths that are easy for children to bring to their mouth independently.

Step 2: Signs Your Child May Benefit From a Chew Pendant

Some children naturally seek oral sensory input as a way to regulate their bodies and manage their energy levels.

You might notice your child:

• chewing on shirt collars or sleeves
• chewing toys or other objects
• chewing their hair or fingers
• biting their nails
• seeking something to chew when concentrating
• using chewing or sucking behaviours for comfort

For some families, chew pendants can also help redirect oral sensory needs as children transition away from habits like using a dummy or pacifier.

“It’s not only children with autism who seek oral input — just look around any classroom and you’ll easily spot kids chewing pencils or shirt collars.”
— Debbie Hopper, Occupational Therapist

A chew pendant provides a safe and appropriate option that children can use whenever they need that sensory input.

Step 3: Front Teeth or Back Teeth?

Children often chew in different ways depending on the sensory input they are seeking.

Back teeth (molars)
Children who chew with their back teeth often prefer longer or narrower chew shapes that can comfortably reach their molars. This style can also suit children who grind their teeth or chew strongly.

Front teeth
Children who chew with their front teeth can usually use any chew pendant shape comfortably.

If you're unsure where your child tends to chew, a longer chew style can be a great option as it works well for both front and back teeth.

Step 4: Choosing the Right Firmness

Jellystone chew pendants come in three firmness levels to support different chewing needs.

Soft Chews

Best for mild chewers who enjoy occasional chewing but do not typically chew through objects.

Soft chews are flexible, chewy and easy to compress, making them ideal for light chewing and gentle sensory input.

Medium Chews

Best for moderate chewers who chew more regularly and need a slightly firmer chew.

Medium firmness provides more resistance while still remaining comfortable to chew, making it a popular choice for many children.

Firm Chews

Best for strong or avid chewers who tend to chew frequently or chew through objects.

Firm chews are more durable and less flexible, designed to withstand stronger chewing.

Please note that no chew tool is indestructible and may need replacing over time.

Why Chewing Can Be Helpful

Chewing provides strong sensory input to the muscles of the jaw, which can help children regulate how their body feels.

“Oral motor input is a powerful sensory strategy that can help children change their level of alertness and regulate their behaviour.”
— Debbie Hopper, Occupational Therapist

For some children, chewing can help them focus and stay alert.

For others, it can help calm the nervous system and reduce feelings of stress or overwhelm.

Because oral sensory input can work quickly, some children may return to chewing periodically throughout the day when they need that support.

Why We Don’t Make Ultra-Hard Chews

At Jellystone Designs, we intentionally avoid creating extremely hard chew tools.

Very hard materials can place excessive pressure on developing teeth and jaw muscles.

Instead, we focus on designing chew tools that provide safe, durable and comfortable sensory input while supporting healthy oral development.

If your child requires very strong chewing support, we recommend consulting an Occupational Therapist or healthcare professional for further guidance.

Safety Information

• Always supervise young children when using chew tools
• Regularly inspect products for wear or damage
• Replace the chew if signs of damage appear
• Follow Jellystone Designs product safety guidelines

Expert Insight

Debbie Hopper
BHlthSc (OT), MHlthSc (OT)

Debbie Hopper is an Occupational Therapist, author and educator specialising in sensory processing and behaviour regulation. She works with parents and educators to better understand children’s sensory needs and support emotional regulation.