If you’re noticing your 3-month-old is suddenly chewing on everything in sight, don’t be alarmed. This is a typical behavior among infants and is often a sign of new developmental stages being reached.
From sensory exploration to the early stages of teething, your little one’s world is expanding rapidly, and their need to explore this world often leads to them using their mouth.
Read on to understand more about this intriguing phase of your baby’s life, why it’s happening, and how you can support their development during this time.
Reasons Why 3 Month Olds Put Everything in Mouth
Teething
One of the main reasons why 3-month-olds put everything in their mouths is teething. At this age, babies start to develop their first set of teeth, and the process can be uncomfortable and painful. Chewing on objects can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by teething.
As a result, 3-month-olds will try to put anything they can get their hands on into their mouths to soothe their gums. You can relieve this with teething gels or even some teething toys to soothe their gums.
Exploration
Another reason why babies put everything in their mouths is because they are exploring the world around them. At 3 months old, babies are just starting to learn about their surroundings and the objects in them. By putting objects in their mouths, babies can learn about the shape, texture, and taste of different things, so ensure you have the right range of toys for 3 months old for them.
When your baby explores with their mouth, this is just perfect normal and natural and rather than be worried you should encourage mouthing.
Ensure you are giving your baby plenty of baby sensory toys for development, just make sure they are safe to go in baby’s mouth (this can be harder if you have older children who don’t leave toys out of baby’s reach but its vital!).
Sensory Stimulation
Putting objects in their mouths can also provide babies with sensory input. At this age, babies are still developing their senses, and mouthing objects can help them better understand their environment. The act of chewing and sucking on objects can provide different sensations and help babies learn more about their bodies and how they interact with the world around them.
Ways to Encourage Safe Exploration
Provide Safe Toys
When your baby is exploring and mouthing objects, it is important to provide them with safe toys that are age-appropriate and free from choking hazards. Soft, squishy toys such as teething rings or toys with different textures can be great options. Soft toys are also a great option for them.
Avoid toys with small parts that can be easily swallowed or toys that are too hard and can cause injury. Be sure to regularly check toys for any signs of wear and tear that could make them unsafe.
Best Teether Toy
Magica
Beechwood and water-based, non-toxic stain, it offers a safe & stimulating sensory experience.
Best Teether Overall
Frida Baby
Fridge-friendly teething solution – provides soothing relief, while also being easy to clean and safe to chew.
Best Combo Teether
Haakaa
Versatile baby product – provides gentle gum relief and introduces solid foods safely and conveniently
Guide to best baby teethers
Supervise Your Baby
While it is important to encourage exploration, it is equally important to supervise your baby during playtime. Keep an eye on them and make sure they are not putting anything dangerous in their mouth. If you need to step away, make sure your baby is in a safe and secure area where they cannot access any hazardous objects.
Redirect Your Baby’s Attention
If you notice your baby putting something unsafe in their mouth, calmly remove it and redirect their attention to a safe toy or object. This will help them learn what is okay to mouth and what is not. You can also try engaging your baby in other activities such as singing or reading a book to distract them from mouthing objects.
When to Be Concerned
Persistent Behavior
It’s normal for babies to put things in their mouths, but if your 3-month-old continues to put everything in their mouth persistently, it may be a cause for concern. If your baby shows signs of discomfort or pain while mouthing, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician.
If your baby’s mouthing behavior is accompanied by other repetitive behaviors, such as rocking or head-banging, it may be a sign of a developmental disorder. In this case, it’s important to seek an evaluation from a pediatrician or a specialist.
Signs of Illness
If your baby is mouthing everything and also shows signs of illness, such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s important to contact your pediatrician right away. Your baby may have ingested something harmful, or they may be experiencing symptoms of an illness that requires medical attention.
Remember, while mouthing is a normal behavior for babies, it’s important to be aware of any persistent or concerning behaviors. Always consult with your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s development.
FAQS on 3 month old Puts Everything in Mouth (Baby Mouthing)
Why does my 3 month old put everything in her mouth?
At 3 months old, most babies are exploring their world through their senses, including touch and taste. Putting things in their mouths helps them learn about their environment and is a normal part of their development.
Why is my 3 month old drooling and chewing on hands?
Drooling and baby chewing on hands at 3 months old could be an early sign of teething, but it can also be a normal part of their development as they learn to use their mouth and explore their surroundings. Babies chew as part of their normal developmental growth. Teething toys can help.
At what age do babies stop putting everything in their mouth?
Babies usually start to outgrow the habit of putting everything in their mouths between 2 and 3 years of age. However, some children may continue to explore objects orally beyond this age.
Is 3 months too early for teething?
While the average age for teething is around 6 months, some babies may start teething as early as 3 months old. If you notice signs of teething, such as excessive drooling, irritability, or gum swelling, it’s possible your 3-month-old is teething.
What is mouthing behavior?
Mouthing behavior in babies is the natural tendency to explore objects by putting them in their mouths. This behavior helps babies learn about their environment and is an essential part of their sensory development. Mouthing behavior typically decreases as children grow and develop other ways to explore their surroundings.
Why Does My Child Mouth Everything?
Mouthing objects is a normal part of infant and toddler development. Here’s why:
Sensory Exploration: A child’s mouth has more nerve endings per square millimeter than any other part of their body. This makes it a powerful tool for exploring the world. Infants and toddlers learn about their environment by tasting, chewing, and sucking on toys, clothing, and other objects.
Teething Relief: When a child is teething, their gums can become sore and inflamed. Chewing on objects can provide some relief by creating counter-pressure on the erupting tooth or teeth.
Oral Motor Development: Mouthing objects helps children develop the muscle coordination and control they’ll need for eating, drinking, and speaking.
Comfort and Self-Soothing: Much like thumb-sucking, mouthing can be a self-soothing behavior that helps a child manage stress or discomfort.
Motor Skill Development: Picking up objects to bring to their mouth helps children develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
