
ARK's Hockey Stick Chewable Pencil Topper
ARK's Hockey Stick Chewable Pencil Topper is a medical-grade elastomer oral sensory tool that fits over the end of a standard HB pencil, providing a safe and durable chewing surface for children who seek oral sensory input during writing tasks. Made by ARK Therapeutic and recommended for children aged 6 and above, its distinctive hockey stick shape makes it a popular choice with children who enjoy sport - offering a familiar, appealing design that encourages consistent use as part of a sensory routine.
How It Helps
The Hockey Stick Topper is solid on one end for chewing and hollow on the other to fit neatly over a standard HB pencil. It measures approximately 8cm long, 1.4cm wide, and 1cm thick - slightly larger than some other pencil toppers, which gives more surface area for chewing. Like all ARK Therapeutic pencil toppers, it is available in three colour-coded firmness levels: Standard (for mild chewers), XT - Xtra Tough (for moderate chewers), and XXT - Xtra Xtra Tough (for avid chewers who work through softer tools quickly). Each pack includes one topper and one eraser-less pencil.
Why It Works Well in Schools and Classrooms
- Sport-themed design encourages buy-in from children: The hockey stick shape gives the topper a familiar, non-stigmatising look that many children - particularly those who play sport - find appealing and are more willing to use consistently.
- Three firmness levels to match individual needs: SENCOs and class teachers can select the right firmness level for each pupil, from the soft Standard level through to the very firm XXT for children who regularly chew through less durable tools.
- Supports focus and regulation during written tasks: Oral sensory input is widely used by occupational therapists as a strategy to help children with sensory processing differences, ADHD, and autism remain calm and focused during seated, desk-based work.
- Hygienic and easy to maintain: The Hockey Stick Topper is handwashable and top-rack dishwasher safe, making it straightforward to keep clean in a school environment.
- Meets the highest safety standards: Made from FDA-compliant medical-grade elastomer with no BPA, latex, lead, phthalates, or PVC - important reassurance for schools, local authorities, and trust procurement teams.
For Home Use
Parents supporting children with sensory differences, ADHD, or autism at home will find the Hockey Stick Topper equally practical during homework, reading, and other seated tasks. Its recognisable shape can help children engage willingly with the tool as part of a consistent routine shared between school and home.
The Evidence Behind Oral Sensory Tools
Oral sensory seeking - chewing, biting, or mouthing objects - is a recognised behaviour in children with sensory processing disorder, ADHD, and autism spectrum conditions. It reflects a need for proprioceptive input through the jaw, which many children find calming and regulating. Occupational therapists routinely recommend purpose-made chewable tools as a safer, more hygienic, and socially acceptable way to meet this need during lessons and other activities. ARK Therapeutic is a trusted name in oral motor and sensory therapy, used in schools, clinics, and homes internationally.
Ready to Support Your Pupils?
Each Hockey Stick Topper comes with one chewable topper and one eraser-less pencil. Browse the three firmness options and choose the level that best suits the pupil you are supporting. It is worth having the next firmness level available as needs develop over time.
- Medical-grade elastomer construction: Safe for oral use, FDA compliant, and free from BPA, latex, lead, phthalates, and PVC.
- Hockey stick shape: Sport-themed design that appeals to children and encourages consistent use as part of a sensory routine.
- Three colour-coded firmness levels: Standard (softest, for mild chewers), XT - Xtra Tough (medium firm, for moderate chewers), XXT - Xtra Xtra Tough (very firm, for avid chewers).
- Hollow on one end: Fits neatly over standard HB / #2 pencils without an eraser fitted.
- Solid chewing end: Built for durability under regular chewing use.
- Dimensions: Approximately 8cm long x 1.4cm wide x 1cm thick.
- Age suitability: Recommended for children aged 6 years and above. Adult supervision required. Not a toy.
- What is included: 1 x Hockey Stick chewable pencil topper and 1 x eraser-less pencil.
- Care instructions: Handwash or top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Manufactured by: ARK Therapeutic, Columbia, SC, USA.
- What is ARK's Hockey Stick Chewable Pencil Topper?
ARK's Hockey Stick Chewable Pencil Topper is a medical-grade elastomer oral sensory tool shaped like a hockey stick, designed for children aged 6 and above who seek oral sensory input during writing tasks. It fits over the end of a standard HB pencil and provides a safe, durable surface to chew on. Made by ARK Therapeutic, it is available in three firmness levels to suit different chewing intensities. - Who is the Hockey Stick Pencil Topper designed for?
The Hockey Stick Topper is designed for children aged 6 and above who seek oral stimulation, including those with sensory processing disorder, ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, and anxiety. Its sport-themed design makes it particularly appealing to children who enjoy hockey or other team sports, and who may be more willing to use a themed tool consistently in class. - How does a chewable pencil topper help children with ADHD or sensory processing differences?
Chewing provides proprioceptive input through the jaw that many children with ADHD or sensory processing differences find regulating. A purpose-made chewable tool like the Hockey Stick Topper gives that input safely and hygienically during lessons, reducing the likelihood of a child chewing on clothing, pencil ends, or other unsuitable objects. Consistent oral sensory input can support focus, reduce anxiety, and help children remain calm during seated tasks. - What firmness level should I choose?
The Hockey Stick Topper is available in Standard (softest, for mild chewers who do not generally chew through things), XT - Xtra Tough (medium firm, for moderate chewers), and XXT - Xtra Xtra Tough (very firm, for avid chewers who work through softer tools regularly). If you are unsure, the XT level is a common starting recommendation from occupational therapists. Having the next firmness level as a spare is advisable as the child's needs may change. - What age is the Hockey Stick Pencil Topper suitable for?
The Hockey Stick Topper is recommended for children aged 6 and above - broadly from Year 1 through to secondary school. Adult supervision is required. It is not classified as a toy and is intended as a therapeutic oral sensory tool. - Is the Hockey Stick Topper safe for use in school?
Yes. It is made from FDA-compliant medical-grade elastomer and contains no BPA, latex, lead, phthalates, or PVC. It is handwash and top-rack dishwasher safe, making hygiene maintenance straightforward. The topper fits onto the child's own pencil and can be used discreetly during lessons without disruption. - Does the Hockey Stick Topper fit all pencils?
The Hockey Stick Topper is designed to fit standard HB / #2 pencils that do not have an eraser fitted to the end. Each pack includes one chewable topper and one eraser-less pencil. It may not fit oversized or triangular pencils without checking compatibility first. - How do I clean the Hockey Stick Pencil Topper?
The topper can be cleaned by handwashing with warm water and mild soap, or by placing it in the top rack of a dishwasher. Regular cleaning is recommended, particularly when the topper moves between school and home.