Has your baby suddenly become obsessed with chewing their hands? Don't worry — it's usually a perfectly normal part of development!
Babies chew their hands for four common reasons: exploration, self-soothing, hunger and teething. And although it's easy to assume those little gums are getting ready for their first teeth, hand chewing doesn't always mean your baby is teething.
Let's explore why it happens and how you can help.
4 Reasons Babies Chew Their Hands
1. Discovering Their Hands
Babies love exploring, and their mouths are one of their favourite ways to learn!
As their coordination develops, they discover they can bring their hands to their mouths. It's an important developmental milestone, even if they do seem determined to fit an entire fist in there!
2. Self-Soothing
Sucking is a natural reflex, and many babies find sucking their fingers or fists comforting.
You might notice your little one doing this when they're tired, settling down or simply enjoying the sensation.
3. Hunger
Hand sucking can also be an early hunger cue, particularly in younger babies.
Look for other signs, such as turning towards the breast or bottle, opening their mouth or making sucking movements.
4. Teething
Sometimes, hand chewing really is about those emerging teeth!
Chewing can provide pressure against tender gums, which some babies find soothing.
Other signs of teething include increased dribbling, sore gums, flushed cheeks and wanting to chew more frequently.
Most babies get their first tooth at around six months, although some start earlier.
You can read more in our guide to five common signs of teething.
Why Is My 2-, 3- or 4-Month-Old Chewing Their Hands?
This is one of the questions parents ask most often!
At 2 months: Hand sucking may be linked to natural reflexes, hunger or comfort.
At 3 months: Babies are becoming increasingly aware of their hands and practising bringing them towards their mouths.
At 4 months: Hand-to-mouth coordination is developing further, and some babies may also begin experiencing early teething symptoms.
Remember, every baby develops differently, and hand chewing alone doesn't confirm teething.
How Can I Help My Baby?
If your baby is happy chewing their hands, there's usually no need to stop them.
However, if they seem uncomfortable, you could try:
-
Gentle gum massage: Rub their gums carefully with a clean finger.
-
A suitable teether: Choose one appropriate for their age and abilities.
-
A chilled teether: Some teethers can be cooled in the fridge for extra comfort. Never freeze them.
-
Keeping skin clean: Gently clean and dry their hands and face if dribbling causes irritation.
If your baby seems unwell, is struggling to feed or has persistently sore skin, seek advice from your health visitor or GP. A temperature of 38°C or higher in a baby under three months requires urgent medical advice.
What If My Baby Can't Hold a Teether Yet?
This is a subject particularly close to my heart because it's exactly why I invented the Gummee Glove!
When my son was just 10 weeks old, he was constantly trying to chew his hands. He appeared to be experiencing early teething discomfort, but couldn't yet hold a traditional teether.
I searched everywhere for something suitable, but couldn't find what we needed.
So I invented the Gummee Glove!
It's a wearable teething mitten with silicone chewing surfaces, designed to give babies something to chew without needing to grip a traditional teether.
What started as a solution for my own baby became Gummee, and we've been helping families ever since.
Find out more about how a teething mitten can help your baby.
Always choose products suitable for your baby's age and development, and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does chewing hands mean my baby is teething?
Not necessarily! Babies also chew their hands to explore, self-soothe or communicate hunger.
Why is my 3-month-old suddenly chewing their hands?
At around three months, babies are developing hand-to-mouth coordination. Chewing their hands is often a normal developmental behaviour.
Can a 2-month-old baby be teething?
Yes, although it's less common. Most babies get their first tooth at around six months.
Should I stop my baby sucking their fingers?
Usually not. It's a normal part of development, provided their skin remains healthy and they're otherwise comfortable.
What's the best teether for a baby who can't hold one?
A suitable wearable teething mitten, such as the Gummee Glove, can be a practical option for babies who bring their hands to their mouths but cannot yet hold a traditional teether.
Written by Jodine Boothby, mum of two and founder and inventor of Gummee.
This article provides general parenting information and is not a substitute for medical advice.
Leave a comment