How to choose the right chewable
With so many chewable necklaces, bracelets, pencil toppers, and sensory chews available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. One of the most common questions we receive is:
"Which chewable is right for my child?"
The answer depends on how often they chew, what they typically chew on, and how much resistance they prefer.
Understanding Chewable Toughness Levels
Our chewables are available in three different toughness levels to suit a variety of oral sensory needs.
Standard (Level 1)
Softest & Most Chewy
The Standard level is designed for individuals who enjoy softer, more flexible chewables and do not typically chew through items.
Recommended for individuals who:
✓ Occasionally chew on pens or pencils
✓ Occasionally chew on shirt sleeves
✓ Suck on fingers or clothing
✓ Are new to chew tools
This is the level that works well for most users and is usually the best place to start.
Tough (Level 2)
Firmer with More Resistance
The Tough level provides increased durability while still maintaining a comfortable chewing experience.
Recommended for individuals who:
✓ Frequently chew on pens or pencils
✓ Frequently chew on shirt sleeves or collars
✓ Chew on fingers or fingernails
✓ Have previously chewed through softer chewables
Extra Tough (Level 3)
Maximum Resistance
Extra Tough chewables offer the highest level of firmness and durability within a specific chewable design.
Recommended for individuals who:
✓ Frequently destroy pens and pencils through chewing
✓ Chew heavily on clothing, collars, or sleeves
✓ Chew on hands, fingers, or fingernails
✓ Seek strong oral sensory input
✓ Have previously chewed through Standard or Tough chewables
While no chewable is indestructible, Extra Tough options are generally the longest-lasting choice for heavy chewers.
Which Level Should I Start With?
In most cases, we recommend starting with the Standard level.
If your child regularly damages or chews through items such as:
- Pens and pencils
- Shirt sleeves
- Soft toys
- Silicone chews
then the Tough level may be a better starting point.
We typically only recommend starting with Extra Tough if the individual has already chewed through other chewables or regularly chews on very hard items such as:
- LEGO® bricks
- Hard plastic toys
- Wooden objects
- Shoe laces or shoe parts
Keep in mind that some individuals may find Extra Tough chewables too firm, even if they have strong chewing needs.
How Long Should a Chewable Last?
This is one of the most common questions we receive.
The simple answer is:
There is no set lifespan for a chewable.
The longevity of a chew tool depends on several factors, including:
- Frequency of use
- Chewing intensity
- Jaw strength
- Stress and anxiety levels
- The chewable's shape and design
- The selected toughness level
Some individuals may use the same chewable for months, while others with very strong oral sensory needs may wear through a chewable in a matter of days or even hours.
Because chew tools are designed to be chewed, wear and tear is completely normal and expected.
No Chewable Is Indestructible
Even the toughest chewables will eventually show signs of wear.
You may notice:
- Bite marks
- Surface wear
- Small tears
- Changes in shape
- Reduced durability over time
Once a chewable becomes damaged, torn, or shows signs of breaking apart, it should be discarded and replaced immediately.
ARK Therapeutic Chewables
Many of our Extra Tough chewables are part of the ARK Therapeutic range.
ARK chewables are internationally recognised for their durability, quality, and thoughtful sensory designs.
Products from this range are clearly identified on our website with the ARK prefix.
While ARK chewables are often more expensive, many families find their durability and quality make them a worthwhile investment.
Sensory Preferences Can Change
It's important to remember that oral sensory preferences are not always consistent.
Many individuals prefer:
- A softer chew when calm and regulated
- A firmer chew during times of stress or anxiety
- Different shapes for different situations
Because of this, some families choose to keep more than one chewable available.
For example:
- A Standard chew for everyday use
- A Tough or Extra Tough chew for periods of increased sensory seeking
Softer vs Tougher: Which Is Better?
When in doubt, we generally recommend choosing a chewable that is slightly softer rather than harder.
A softer chew may wear out more quickly, but it is more likely to be accepted and used.
A chewable that is too firm may simply be rejected, even if it would last longer.
Our experience has shown that individuals are far more likely to stop using a chewable because it feels too hard than because it feels too soft.
Important Safety Information
- Inspect chewables regularly for signs of wear or damage.
- Discard and replace any chewable that becomes torn, cracked, or damaged.
- Adult supervision is recommended.
- The necklace cord and breakaway clasp are not designed for chewing.
- If the user is likely to chew the cord or clasp, a bracelet or pencil topper may be a more suitable option.
- Always select a chewable appropriate to the user's age, chewing strength, and sensory needs.
Remember: Every Individual Is Different
There is no single chewable that works for everyone.
What feels perfect for one person may feel too soft, too firm, too large, or too small for another.
Finding the right chewable sometimes requires a little experimentation, but choosing a chew tool that matches the individual's sensory preferences is often one of the most effective ways to redirect chewing from potentially unsafe items.
Most importantly, chew tools are just one part of a broader sensory support plan. They work best alongside other sensory, emotional regulation, and calming strategies that support the individual's overall wellbeing.
