GUIDE TO TEETHING TOYS

Guide to Teething Toys

Teething Toy : What is it?

Teething toys are small, soft objects designed to address babies’ natural need to suck and chew on things. This natural need escalates during the teething period, causing babies to become restless and inclined to bite into things.

Teething toys can also be used to aid babies' speech training such as in voice coordination, breathing, and precise and rapid movements of the tongue, lips, palate, and jaw. Different teething toys encourage babies to explore different textures, surface designs, and shapes that may improve their sense experience, coordination, and ability to express themselves.

Types of Teething Toys

Kinds of Teething Toys include the following:

Soft teething toys

Soft teething toys are ideal for babies with no teeth yet.
They are made from soft fabric materials.
They come in various forms such as animals and complex geometric shapes.
They can also squeak when pressed.

Cool teething toys

Cool teething toys are used during the teething stage when babies' gums can become itchy and swollen.They are filled with sterilized water.
They are chilled in the fridge to cool.
The coolness relieves the pain and itching of the gums and adds to babies' sensory experience.

Solid teething toys

Solid teething toys are used once the teeth have come through.
They satisfy the babies’ need to suck and chew with their new teeth.
They are made of natural, soft rubber.
They are colored using nontoxic paint.

Choosing Teething Toys (Buying tips)

Age: Choose a teething toy appropriate for your baby's age. Read the label to know if it is made for your baby.
Size: Choose a teething toy large enough not to be accidentally swallowed by your baby.

Safety information

Teething toys should not have moving parts or internal parts (such as squeakers) that may accidentally fall out and pose choking hazards.

They should be indestructible and pliable, with handles at least two inches wide as recommended by the CPSC.

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