Taste (gustatory)
PLAY BONDING AND CONNECTION IN THE EARLY DAYS
IT TASTES GOOD
Why do babies put things in their mouth?
The tongue is where the largest concentration of touch receptors live.
A baby has around 30,000 taste buds.
They are not just on the tongue but also on the sides, back, and roof of the mouth. Adults have about 10,000.
SENSORY EXPLORATION
Babies use their mouths as a primary tool for sensory exploration. By mouthing objects, they can gather information about the world around them.
Different textures, shapes, and tastes provide valuable sensory input and help them learn about their environment.
ORAL STIMULATION
The act of sucking and chewing on objects provides oral stimulation, which is comforting and soothing for babies. It helps satisfy their natural oral needs and can provide a sense of security and relaxation.
MOUTH MUSCLES
Putting objects in their mouths allows babies to exercise and strengthen the muscles in their mouth and jaw. These muscles play a crucial role in speech development and the later introduction of solid foods.
STIMULATE TASTE THROUGH PLAY
As babies go through the teething process, they experience discomfort and pain in their gums. Chewing on objects provides counter pressure and relief from teething pain. It helps alleviate the discomfort and offers a natural way for them to soothe their gums.
Teething toys we love at The New Parent Company
Matchstick Monkey
A great little monkey, easy for little hands to hold, made from BPA-free silicone material, can be used to apply teething gel too.
Mini Tudou 6 Pcs Baby Stacking & Nesting Circle Toy
We love this stacking teether toy, it’s different textures and colours are great for playtime. made from non-toxic silicone
Gummee Glove Baby Teething Mitten
We love because it protects the hand from the dribble & they can’t drop it
Nuby IcyBite™ Keys – Soothing Teether
This great little teether can go in the fridge to help little sore gums.
A baby can not taste salt until it is 4 months old. The delay may be related to the development of kidneys, which start to process sodium at about that age.
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