Everything goes through the mouth
Mouthing objects is one of the ways babies learn
By The Millie's Team · Parenting Notes
Around week twenty-two, almost everything your baby grabs ends up in their mouth. Hands, toys, clothing and even your fingers are all fair game.
What is happening
The mouth is one of your baby's most sensitive places, with far more nerve endings than the hands. Mouthing is how babies find out about texture, shape and weight. It is a key part of sensory learning, not just a habit.
Is this normal
Yes. The mouthing stage is normal and lasts a long time, often well past the first birthday. Extra dribble during this stage is also very common, even if teeth are still some way off.
What you may notice
- Hands constantly going to the mouth
- Toys, books and clothes being chewed
- More dribble than before
- Calmer moments while exploring something with the mouth
What helps right now
- Offering safe, washable toys of different textures
- Keeping small objects out of reach
- Being relaxed about clean toys going in
- Drying chins gently to prevent skin soreness
What to expect next
Mouthing usually continues for many months and will quietly fade as other ways of exploring take over. There is no need to discourage it now, only to keep the things within reach safe.