The infant who lacks the coordination to chew and swallow food is protected by an active gag reflex. As sensorimotor skills increase and the child is ready to handle solid foods, the strong gag is no longer critical to survival. Between 4 and 6 months most typically developing babies reduce the strength of the gag through placing their fingers and toys further back in the mouth. This is a gradual process which usually begins before the child is ready for lumpy foods. Sensory Awareness Toys .
Some toys build simple awareness of a sensations in the mouth.
For example the Hand and Foot Teethers and BounceBak have a smooth surface and shapes similar to body parts that the child has been exploring. Massagers such as the Humbug and Aquassager focus on a smooth surface and vibratory input. Sensory Discrimination Toys . Other toys offer more complex sensory opportunities. The Textured Fruit Toys are firm with a wide variety of surface textures.