This week I've been looking for a safe outlet for one of my teen clients who has a significant sensory need to chew. Although it is important for his self-regulation, it can seriously impede our speech-language therapy sessions. I've tried oral chewing tubes found in my local stores, but he's made short work of them and my wallet can't afford to keep up with replacements. The hunt has been on for an alternative that can withstand his level of need. Thankfully, ARK Therapeutic has come to my rescue. They offer an incredible variety of sensory chews with different toughness levels. After talking with a very helpful representative about my sensory-seeking friend, she was able to recommend the XT, Medium-Firm Chewy for him. I really appreciate that ARK Therapeutic was developed by an experienced speech-language pathologist who understands firsthand the needs that clinicians are trying to meet. Check out the sensory chew necklaces I've been trialing this week...
About the ARK Sensory Chew Necklaces
ARK's Chewable Ring Necklace: Made in the USA, ARK’s Chewable Ring Necklace is a safe, stylish, and discreet solution for both kids and adults who need to chew. Measuring about 2" in diameter and 1/2 inch thick, it's a great option for those who like to chew with their front teeth. It comes in 3 color-coded toughness levels.
3 color-coded toughness levels:
- Soft / Standard - this is the softest and chewiest level
- XT / Medium Firm - this is the middle level; it's firmer, but still fairly chewy
- XXT / Super Firm - this is the toughest level; while it still has some “chewability” to it, it’s fairly rigid/pretty firm
ARK doesn't always recommend getting the XXT right off the bat because some people may find it uncomfortable to chew on something so firm, but it can be helpful for anyone who already likes chewing on very hard items such as legos, hard plastic toys, wooden items, etc. I've found the XT to be perfect for my client who has chewed through standard chew tubes and teether material items in a couple of week's time.
Caution: These products are not toys. The clasp and cord are not intended for chewing. Contains small parts that may pose a choking hazard - direct supervision required. Recommended for ages 5 years and up. Although these chew tools are sturdy and durable, no chew tool is indestructible. Wear/tear may be expected given the nature of the intended use. How long they last is typically equal to the amount and intensity of the chewing, as well as other variables (such as jaw strength, stress/anxiety levels, if other sensory strategies are in place, etc.). While for some people a chew tool will last forever, for others with heavy/aggressive oral needs, they may go through it very quickly. Please supervise at all times, regularly inspect the chew, and replace if necessary if the item shows signs of wear and tear. 
Learn More About Oral Sensory Needs
For those of you who are searching for more information about oral sensory needs, this is a fantastic article from Debra C, Lowsky, MS, CCC-SLP:
Check out their ARK University resource page for a information about feeding therapy and more.
Where to Purchase
Head over to ArkTherapeutic.com to browse their entire collection of therapy materials to find the right tools for you. (All made in the USA!)
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Disclaimer: The products in this post were provided by ARK Therapeutics. As always, our posts are our own, honest opinions.