How to Help Your Child Kick Their Thumb Sucking Habit

As a parent, one undesirable habit your child may have is thumb sucking. Most toddlers suck their thumb because, to them, it has a comforting and calming effect. Most likely, it is a habit they had while still in the womb. Thumb sucking can manifest itself when the child is nervous, scared, ill, or agitated. It can also put them back to sleep at night, if they wake up.

If you have a toddler under the age of six, there is no real alarm, if they suck their thumb. Actually, parents shouldn't be worried about this habit until permanent teeth develop. Once permanent teeth come in, thumb sucking can cause deformed teeth. The teeth become deformed because of the force of sucking and the tongue thrusting that takes place.

If thumb sucking does continue while permanent teeth develop; it is most probable, braces will be necessary, later on in your child's life. If your child simply rests their thumb within their mouth, as opposed to actively sucking it, they will be less likely to have problems with their teeth. If you are worried about your child's thumb sucking, observe them. Watch to see if they just put their thumb in their mouth, or they suck on it vigorously. If they are being more aggressive with their thumb, you may want to get them out of the habit sooner than later.

Disciplining your child or constantly telling them to stop is not the solution. Sucking the thumb is an automated response. Some parents try to stop this habit by putting a plastic bandage on the child's thumb. However, this is not the solution either. They will look at it this tactic as punishment. Remember the reasons why they suck their thumb. They are doing it because they are seeking comfort and security.

Patience may be your best bet. Most of the time a child will quit sucking their thumb when they find alternative means of calming and comforting themselves. You can help this process by giving them a substitute. Perhaps you could present them with a soft blanket, or some sort of plush, cute, stuffed toy.

While observing your child, take note of when and where they are most apt to suck their thumb. Use this as your opportunity to give them the alternative. If they suck their thumb when they are predominantly sleepy, try introducing longer, or more frequent, nap times. If you notice the majority of the time the thumb sucking takes place while watching television, give them a toy which will keep both hands busy, while watching T.V.

As your child gets older, while in public, they may need reminded to not suck their thumb. You should always give praise when they don't suck their thumb and are using the alternate method you've given them to calm themselves. You can also consult your child's pediatric dentist for more suggestions and help with their thumb sucking habit.