What is the attachment parenting, gentle approach here? My son puts everything in his mouth and I...

[Hymanroth]

He understands "Don't eat" because I say it to him if he cannot put things in his mouth on our walks or at the park - like rocks etc. ...

is this ok???

Am I supposed to say it sternly or just normal tone ... and redirect ... push hand away from his mouth?

He picks up everything and loves being down exploring ...

[wendizbaby]

How old is he?  Depending on his age, your reaction will be very different.  My ds is only 7 months old and puts everything in his mouth.  Completely natural and should be expected, but I don't let him keep things that are bad for him.  I don't say anything, just redirect, give him something different and act really happy about it if he starts to tantrum.  That's really all you can do at this age.  I think scolding a baby is completely pointless, even if they did understand what you are saying.  

[Hymanroth]

 sorry hes 9.5 months old
 

[reezley]

Yeah, just a cheery but serious "bleh" or "we don't eat rocks!" or "yucky" or whatever - I would usually have to remove the thing from his hand (or mouth!) myself - and redirect.  . My older son put everything in his mouth. He did stop at some normal age, and this was my approach.