Product Review & GIVEAWAY!: Autism Oral Motor Chewies

*This is a sponsored post but that doesn't influence my opinions.  Please see my disclosure  for the nitty gritty details.

I am so excited to tell you about the Therapy Shoppe's Oral Motor Chewies and even more excited to let you know that once you read and decide, "yes!  I need that for my child!" you can enter my giveaway to win one of two chewies for FREE!   That's right; TWO separate contests means TWO chances to win!

These products have been much needed in our home for...well, years, to be honest.  Sensory problems and autism go hand in hand (as well as with ADHD/ADD and obviously Sensory Processing Disorder) and one of our boys' strongest sensory struggles is oral motor. To avoid any jargon, that basically means we have problems with chewing.  And biting. And sucking.  These oral needs become problems when they are socially inappropriate (chewing our sleeves into non-existence) or harmful to ourselves or others (like biting the kid at church instead of saying, "can I have that toy back?").  The boys exhibit these behaviors as a form of stimming, expressing frustration or in place of communication.

Who benefits from these products?
I would imagine all of us have known a pencil biter or a pen top chewer.  Anyone who is in need of that stimulation would benefit from these products but they are particularly useful for our kiddos with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder.  Also, it's great for problem feeders to help with oral stimulation.  Think of it as a "warm up" before needing to use their mouth for chewing food or talking.

What exactly are they?
Chew Stixx Pencil Toppers and Chewy Charms with necklace are both made by a high pressure molding system and are extremely durable.  That being said, they are to be replaced immediately at signs of wear and tear, should only be used under adult supervision, and are not recommended for ages 4 and under.
They wash easily with mild soap and warm water.

When do we use them? 
When we need to.  If you're a parent of a special needs child you are probably familiar with certain triggers - ya know, what happens right before something bad happens.  For us with the chewing, lots of fighting, squeezing, and "mouthing" are good signs but they are also very helpful during reading and schoolwork.

Where we use them?
This depends on your comfort level and their sensory needs.  Let's be honest - some parents don't want their kid running around with a chewy necklace on their neck.  A lot of our kids with autism stick out enough in public and the last thing we need is one more arrow pointing people's stares in our direction. That being said, this is not just a weird desire they have - it is a need.  When you get past the stigma and accept it as a legitimate need, you will be less concerned with the public eye.  So, I would not deny the child the need, but if it is more comfortable/socially appropriate, these are very small objects that can be tucked in pockets and pulled out when needed.  You can plan accordingly and have the child chew in the car on the way somewhere (like a birthday party) where you know there will be a lot of stimuli and maybe some nervousness.

How to get them
As promised, here is your chance to get them for free!!
Go ahead and enter both contests and tell a friend!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Can't Wait? 
Check out the Therapy Shoppe's website - they have a TON of stuff!  These chewies are just the tip of the ice berg (as well as the tip of my wishlist!) and many sensory needs can be met from their products. Ordering online is easy and they have monthly specials and one-of-a-kind wishlists available on their website.

Not sure what you'll need for your child?  Consult their occupational therapist or teacher.  Observe them yourself and pay attention to what "inappropriate" behavior they are consistently doing.  Leaning back in their chair?  Try a balance seating disc combo.  Bouncing off the walls?  Try a therapy ball.  On a budget?  Check out 175+ toys for under $5.  These could be great for incentives, treasure box, etc.

Good Luck!