Is It Okay If My Baby Chews Books?

If your baby’s favorite way to “read” a book is by chewing on it, you’re not alone.

Many parents worry that this means their baby isn’t really engaging — or that they’re damaging something important. In reality, chewing is one of the earliest ways babies explore the world.

And yes, that includes books.

Why Babies Chew Books

For babies, mouths are tools.

Chewing helps babies:
- Explore textures
- Soothe their gums
- Learn what objects are made of
- Engage with their environment

Books are close, familiar, and often read during calm moments — which makes them especially appealing.

Does Chewing Mean My Baby Isn’t Reading?

No.

At this stage, reading isn’t about following words or pictures. It’s about:
- Touching
- Holding
- Bringing objects close
- Associating books with comfort and attention

Chewing is simply part of that exploration.

When Chewing Is Most Common

Chewing tends to be most noticeable:
- In the first year
- During teething phases
- When babies are tired or settling

This often overlaps with the time babies are first being introduced to books — which is why it can feel confusing.

How to Respond When Your Baby Chews Books

You don’t need to stop reading or correct the behavior.

You can:
- Let your baby chew briefly, then gently turn the page
- Name what they’re holding or touching
- Continue reading aloud, even if the book is in their mouth
- Switch to a sturdier book if needed

The goal is to keep the moment relaxed, not to enforce rules.

Choosing Books That Can Handle It

Books designed for babies are meant to be handled — and sometimes chewed.

Sturdy board books make it easier to:
- Read without worry
- Let babies explore freely
- Keep reading part of daily routines

If a book shows signs of wear, it often means it’s being used the way it’s meant to be.

When Chewing Changes

As babies grow, chewing naturally fades and is replaced by:
- Pointing
- Turning pages
- Bringing books to you
- Sitting for longer moments

You don’t need to rush this transition. It happens on its own.

Common Questions

Should I stop my baby from chewing books?
No. You can gently guide, but chewing itself is normal and temporary.

What if a book gets damaged?
That’s okay. Wear is often a sign of engagement.

Is chewing unsafe?
Board books are designed with babies in mind. Always supervise, but chewing itself is expected.

It doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be shared.

For more on how reading can look day to day, you can also read:
How to Read to a Baby