#asktheexpert My kid who is 3 years and 4 months old has this habit of mouthing the objects very frequently. this behavior sometimes comes and goes off. What steps I can take to ensure to stop his mouthing behavior

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Accepted Answer

It's common for toddlers to explore the world by putting objects in their mouths, but it's essential to encourage safe behavior and discourage this habit. Here are some strategies to help stop a 3-year-old child from putting things in their mouth frequently:

1. **Supervision:** Keep a close eye on your child, especially in environments where there are small objects or potential choking hazards. Provide a safe and supervised space for them to play.

2. **Remove Tempting Objects:** Keep small toys, coins, batteries, and other small objects out of reach or stored securely to prevent your child from accessing them.

3. **Offer Safe Alternatives:** Provide your child with safe and appropriate toys and objects to explore with their hands instead of their mouths. Offer sensory toys, chewable teething toys, or textured objects that are designed for mouthing.

4. **Teach Boundaries:** Use simple and firm language to explain to your child that putting things in their mouth is not safe. Use phrases like "We don't eat toys" or "Toys are for playing, not eating."

5. **Redirect Attention:** When you catch your child putting something in their mouth, gently remove the object and redirect their attention to a more appropriate activity or toy.

6. **Model Safe Behavior:** Demonstrate safe behavior by avoiding putting non-food items in your own mouth. Children often imitate the actions of adults around them.

7. **Positive Reinforcement:** Praise and reward your child when they play with toys appropriately and avoid putting things in their mouth. Offer verbal praise, hugs, or small rewards to reinforce positive behavior.

8. **Maintain Consistency:** Be consistent in enforcing the rule of not putting things in the mouth. Consistency helps children understand boundaries and expectations.

9. **Encourage Sensory Exploration:** Provide sensory play activities that engage your child's senses in a safe and supervised manner. Offer activities like finger painting, playdough, or sensory bins filled with safe materials like rice or dried beans.

10. **Stay Calm:** It's natural for toddlers to explore and test boundaries, so try to remain calm and patient when addressing the behavior. Avoid reacting with anger or frustration, as this may escalate the situation.

If your child's mouthing behavior persists despite your efforts to discourage it, or if you're concerned about their safety, consider consulting with a pediatrician or a child development specialist for additional guidance and support.