How to Teach Baby Not to Put Things in the Mouth

Baby experiences a new world.

Babies experience the world by touch, sight, sound and taste. Since birth, a baby has lived with the comfort of milk, nipple and pacifier being placed in the mouth. As the baby grows and teething begins she will gum and chew on things to soothe the aching gums. A parent has to be highly observant to be sure that he keeps the infant from placing dangerous things in her mouth. As a parent you will learn how to teach your baby not to put things in her mouth.

Things You'll Need

• Teething toys
• Pacifier

Instructions

1. 

   Chewing soothes sore gums.

   Supply your baby with teething toys that are safe for her to put into her mouth. When teething, your baby will need something to chew on.

2. 

   A baby will find anything to chew on.

   Search the floor and any area where your baby will sit or crawl upon for any items that have been dropped or left out. A baby will find things that you cannot see unless you get down to infant or toddler eye level.

3. Take things away from your baby that you know he will put into his mouth. Maintain eye contact and say "no" to her in a normal tone. It will take patience to teach a baby the concept of the word but keep using it during times that are appropriate. Say, "no" and move the baby to another location if she insists on returning to an item that you are trying to keep away from her.

4. 

   Teach baby the word "no."

   Offer a safe alternative to your baby after you take an inappropriate or unsafe item away.

5. Praise your baby when she is showing signs that she understands the word no and drops the items she was putting into her mouth.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a normal tone when speaking to your baby. A loud voice will be frightening and the baby will not understand what you are trying to teach.

• Keep scanning your home for anything that your baby can reach to put into her mouth. A baby does not recognize bad taste and will put poisonous things into her mouth.

References

• Parents.com: Toddler proofing
• Extension.org: Frequently asked questions

Resources

• Parenting: Choking Hazards