putting things in mouth = hungry?

My ds came out of the womb sucking on his hands but now, at 12.5 weeks he puts his blankets in his mouth, chews his pajamas, etc. This may sound silly but is he hungry or just figuring out that he can put stuff in his mouth?

I feel like such a moron some days! I really thought more of the mommy stuff would come naturally.

Re: putting things in mouth = hungry?

It's just a normal thing and doesn't neccessarily mean hunger. DS is over 2 and still puts things in his mouth. And if he's hungry he'll just ask for food.

Re: putting things in mouth = hungry?

When they are young I think that they use their mouth to identify or learn what's around them...then it moves on to indicate teething (most of the time). At almost 2 my son still puts things in his mouth occassionally but for the most part it's not that often and it usually to soothe his gums. The first time I realized that I could give him something to hold without worrying that he would mouth it was really weird...cool but weird...and it does happen but your little one has time.

Sounds to me like he's exploring.

Re: putting things in mouth = hungry?

My guy puts everything in his mouth. everything. as soon as he gets his hands on it. More than likely he's just exploring....

Re: putting things in mouth = hungry?

Kristina was putting her hands into her mouth at all times when she was around this age....

She cut her first 2 teeth at 4 months old.

Re: putting things in mouth = hungry?

My DD is 12 weeks also and has started to mouth her hands alot more than before. She also has increased saliva, so I think it's maybe a progression towards teething/eating solids.

She always put her hands by her mouth when she was hungry, but lately it's a lot more often like you said.

Message edited 2/13/2009 11:01:09 AM.

Re: putting things in mouth = hungry?

It could be a progression towards teething like PP said. It is also good for babies to explore with different textures in their mouths so when they get to eating solids, they would have fewer issues (one would think).

I try to have Abby lie down on different surfaces as well - terry, quilted cotton, nylon - just to see what she can tolerate. Many of my students have issues with tactile defensiveness and food textures so I use the limited knowledge of what our OT's look for with her. So far, so good!