A bit about Nate for those who aren't familiar with this blog
My son is profoundly disabled. He has a very rare genetic disorder called ATR-X. For him this presents as being non mobile, non verbal, visually impaired, requiring non invasive ventilation at night, and just generally being amazing.
Using bibs
In the SN community bandana bibs are a big thing. Many of our children are droolers and chewers. We need big sturdy well made bibs.
Most of us buy online from small fb businesses, and some crafty parents make their own. This allows us to choose the fabric we want. You need to bare in mind that our children aren't babies, even if we could find bibs in shops that fit; chances are they wouldn't be made of age or interest appropriate fabrics.
Bandana bibs can be expensive and vary in quality.
What makes the Neckerchew different?
We, and by we I mean Nate, have been trying out the larger Neckerchew by Cheeky Chompers.
http://cheekychompers.com/shop/larger-neckerchew
The fit is excellent and the bib clearly very well made and absorbant. What makes the Neckerchew so different, however, is the rubber chewy triangle. The idea is that it gives the child something to chew on. Nate uses his mouth for sensory exploration, and although he hasn't ( yet) managed to put the chewy part in his mouth himself I suspect he will try. He also grinds his teeth excessively and it has been useful to have the chewy bit right there when I need to give him something to mouth on.
Out and about
I have lost track of the positive comments made by other parents, teachers and health professionals about the Neckerchew bib Nate has been wearing. The general consensus is that is looks great and has a useful function.
Are there any negatives?
It doesn't have waterproof backing which many excessive droolers require, as they can soak through bibs and their clothes. However the bibs are thick absorbant fabric and we didn't notice any issues with this respect.
Some people will find the price at £12.99 off putting- but you are getting a good quality bib and chew toy in one.
In summary
I think they are pretty great to be honest and will be will be purchasing some more.
I am glad that this has worked for Nate: I was offered one to review, and while they do sounds great, Smiley has never used a neckerchief - she doesn't drool and would not be able to lift the chewy bit into her mouth. A pity, as I could do with a break from the teeth grinding too!
ReplyDeleteTeeth grinding.... *shudders*
DeleteEven Thea does it. I'm sure it's a conspiracy x