#9 The need to chew! Supporting sensory needs with Jenny McLaughlan, founder of Chewigem

Last Updated on April 27, 2021 by Steph Reed In this episode of the podcast, it was a pleasure to speak with Jenny McLaughlan, the founder of Chewigem.As well as being a support community for different sensory needs, Chewigem have designed and created a range of chewing, fidget and sensory aids for children and adults. Sensory needs Our brain processes the sensory information around us; what we see, hear, smell, taste and touch, as well as how it makes us feel; temperature, balance and pain. Some people, including many autistic individuals, may experience extremely heightened senses where sensory input is exceptionally amplified, or on the other hand, barely registered. This differs from person to person and presents differently in each individual. Sensory seeking For individuals with under sensitive senses, they may seek out different sensations in order to get the sensory feedback.Examples of sensory seeking behaviours include chewing or repeatedly seeking out sensations such as smells or touch through hugs, tight clothing or feeling specific textures. Chewigem In the podcast episode, Jenny tells us the story behind Chewigem. How it started as a baby chew and expanded to support people of all ages.‘Chewies’, ‘chew toys’ or sensory supports can help those to receive sensory input, in a safe way. For example, I have taught children who will chew on their clothes, toys or anything around them.Jenny explains how Chewigem is supporting the community by providing supports that have been purposely made for the function of giving sensory feedback, such as wearable chewing resources such as these: Previous