4 Tips to Help Your Toddler's Drooling

Toddlers are a bundle of joy and energy, but they also come with their unique set of challenges. One common issue that many parents face during the toddler stage is excessive drooling. It's completely normal for toddlers to drool as they continue to develop their oral motor skills, but it can be a bit messy. If you're looking for ways to manage your toddler's drooling, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll share four tips to help your toddler with drooling, and we'll also introduce you to a helpful accessory: newborn baby bibs.

Understand the Causes of Toddler Drooling

Before we delve into the tips, it's essential to understand why toddlers drool. Drooling is a natural part of a toddler's development, especially between the ages of 6 months to 2 years. It can occur due to various reasons:

• Teething: As your toddler's teeth start to emerge, excessive saliva production is common.
• Oral motor development: Learning to control saliva and swallow it properly takes time.
• Illness or congestion: Toddlers might drool more when they have a cold or congestion.

Knowing the cause can help you manage drooling effectively.

Provide Teething Relief

Teething can be a major drooling trigger for toddlers. To ease their discomfort and reduce drooling, consider using teething toys or rings designed for toddlers. These toys not only provide a soothing sensation but also encourage them to chew, which can help control drooling. Additionally, offer a cool, clean cloth or a teething-specific baby bib for them to chew on, providing relief while keeping their clothes dry.

Use Newborn Baby Bibs

Newborn baby bibs can be a lifesaver when it comes to managing drooling in toddlers. While you might associate bibs with feeding, they can also serve as a practical accessory to keep your toddler's clothing dry throughout the day. Opt for bibs with a waterproof layer on the back to prevent drool from soaking through to your child's clothing. These bibs are easy to clean and save you from frequent clothing changes.

Encourage Swallowing and Proper Oral Motor Skills

Help your toddler develop their oral motor skills by encouraging them to swallow saliva instead of letting it dribble out. Praise them when they make efforts to swallow, and gently remind them if they forget. You can also play games or engage in activities that promote swallowing, such as blowing bubbles or making exaggerated swallowing motions together.

Drooling is a common phase in a toddler's development, and it usually resolves on its own as they grow older and their oral motor skills improve. In the meantime, using baby bibs can be a practical and convenient solution to keep your toddler's clothing dry and mess-free. Remember to be patient and supportive as your little one navigates this stage, and consider using teething toys to ease discomfort. With these tips, you can help your toddler manage drooling while keeping them comfortable and happy.