I know I've asked before, but this time I have a slightly different question. Does anyone know how to teach an autistic 4 year old to chew gum? My daughter seems to have an obsession with chewing just about anything and when I'm stressed I like to chew on something. I am a gum fanatic, how can I teach her to chew it? I have no idea where to start. Also, is there a gum out there that would be good for her to chew? Something with little sugar (although that might help calm her down since it does her ADD father) would be good. Thank you in advance for all the responses.
I'm concerned that gum make be a choking hazard, even for a four year old. In light of that, what about a chewable toy that infants use for teething. If you decide to give her gum, go to a natural health food store where the gum does not have asparatane or nutrasweet, but only stevia.
Two thoughts... if gum chewing isn't working out, try some of the products here: http://www.theraproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&am... My son really likes these and finds them a great comfort - especially the knobby one.
Also, consider that chewing obsessions sometimes have a biological cause - many moms swear that when their kids chew on things it is because they have a yeast overgrowth. Lots of good information here to help you decide if that is a factor: http://www.enzymestuff.com/conditionbacteria.htm
Good luck!
I haven't had my kids chewing gum that young, but if you think she can handle it, I would like to recommend Melaleuca's Cool Shot gum, which comes in peppermint, spearmint and cinnamon.
Cool Shot has propolis which kills the bacteria which cause bad breath and it is sweetened with xylitol which has been shown to reduce the risk of cavities. This way you will help with mouth health instead of hindering it.
I can help you open an account with Melaleuca, if you would like.
Good luck!
C. Pasquino
____@____.com
Spry is a gum that contains Xylitol. It kills bacteria and promotes an alkaline environment for the mouth.
You can find it at local health food stores. Way better than gum that contains aspartame!
L. M
My daughter is almost four and being tested for autism. She chews on stuff contantly. You can try to explain to her that you chew but don't swallow it. She may not be ready for gum. We have given my daughter gum a couple times and she just eats it. We found that wet washcloths are a great remedy for her. She knows where I keep her washcloths and will get it out and we'll get it wet and she'll chew on it all day. Just an idea in case the gum idea doesn't work.
