Why Chewing on Things is Not Necessarily a Sign of Autism

By Michele Schwartz, MS, OTR/L

If your child is like mine, and chews on almost everything you might be wondering what that means.

Is chewing on things a sign of autism? Or is it normal child development? Or is it a sign of something else?

If you have never heard of Sensory processing disorder you may be surprised to hear that chewing on items is a sign of SPD.

Many people who have autism also exhibit signs of SPD, and having sensory processing disorder can be a sign of autism, but the reverse logic is not true.

Chewing on things does not necessarily equal autism.

Then why is my child constantly chewing on everything?

Oral sensory stimulation is a very calming sensory input.

See the full article for More info on how to help your child

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