'Get that out of your mouth!' Why mouthing is actually great for your infant

When you see your baby or toddler pop a toy, finger, or teether into their mouth, your first instinct might be to say, “get that out of your mouth!” But mouthing is far more than a messy habit—it’s a vital part of early development. This natural behavior supports language, speech, and sensory skills, soothes pain, and may even boost immunity. Here’s why mouthing deserves a second look and how you can support your child through this stage.

What Is Mouthing?

Mouthing is when infants and toddlers, typically under two, explore objects with their mouths. The mouth, rich with sensory receptors, is a key tool for learning about textures, shapes, and tastes. Far from something to stop, mouthing fosters language, motor skills, comfort, and health.

1. Strengthens speech muscles

The lips, tongue, and jaw used in mouthing are essential for speech. Chewing on a teether or moving a spoon in their mouth builds strength and coordination for saying words like “mama” or “ball.” Mouthing is a workout for future speech.

2. Soothes pain and discomfort

Mouthing is a natural way for babies to self-soothe, especially during teething. The pressure of chewing on a teether or soft toy relieves gum pain, keeping your child calm and ready to engage. A soothed baby is better able to learn and communicate.

3. May boost immunity

Some studies suggest mouthing can strengthen a child’s immune system. By exposing babies to small amounts of harmless microbes through safe, clean objects, mouthing may help build early defenses. While more research is needed, this potential benefit makes mouthing even more valuable.

4. Supports sensory connections for language

Language develops when sensory experiences are linked to words. When your child mouths an object, they process sensory information—like a fuzzy toy’s texture—that connects to words you say, like “soft.” These links help them understand and use language later.

5. Sparks curiosity and communication

Mouthing shows your child’s curiosity, a driver of language learning. As they explore objects with their mouth, they may babble or gesture to share discoveries, setting the stage for conversations.

6. Encourages social interaction

Mouthing during play creates moments to connect. When you name the toy they’re chewing or respond with a smile, you’re fostering a back-and-forth exchange that mimics conversation and supports language growth.

How to Support Mouthing Safely

Try these tips to make mouthing safe and productive:

• Provide safe items: Offer clean, age-appropriate toys like chilled teethers or soft blocks, avoiding choking hazards.

• Narrate the experience: Use simple words to describe what they’re mouthing to build vocabulary.

• Keep it clean: Wash mouthed objects regularly to prevent harmful germs while allowing safe microbial exposure.

• Supervise: Watch your child to ensure safe exploration.

• Offer variety: Provide different textures to support sensory, motor, soothing, and developmental needs.

When to Seek Guidance

Mouthing typically decreases by age two as children explore more with hands and eyes. If mouthing persists excessively or you notice delays in speech or sensory processing, consult a pediatrician or speech-language pathologist.

Rethink the Mouthing Moment

Next time you’re tempted to say, “get that out of your mouth,” remember that mouthing is a powerful tool for your child’s growth. It soothes pain, builds language skills, sparks curiosity, and may even strengthen immunity. By offering safe opportunities and pairing mouthing with words, you’re helping your infant lay the foundation for confident communication. Embrace this curious, comforting stage—it’s doing more for your child than you might think!