How to Help Your Child Stop Sucking Their Thumb

Thumb sucking is a common habit of children and an equally difficult task for parents to break the habit. Pacifiers and toys can be taken away, but a hand or finger is much more difficult. Children usually suck their thumbs because it is comforting, however, it can cause orthodontic problems and maybe some teasing if the child is older. This article will cover some useful tips to help your child stop sucking their thumb.

Most kids grow out of thumb sucking by the time they're ready for school. However, for the child that does find it comforting there are some things you can do to speed up the process of quitting. First of all, never use force. When children feel isolated or threatened they can resort to thumb sucking to calm them. Try giving the child some extra attention and possibly use reward for good progress.

A parent should never nag about the issue. Children who think it is their idea to stop usually stop quicker than other children that are pushed. Encourage your child to realize that they are a big kid now and there are many things they used as a baby that are no longer like bottles, diapers, etc. Ask your child what else they can give up as they mature and if thumb sucking does not come to their mind, suggest it.

Use distraction when you see the thumb making its way toward the mouth. Find a toy or activity that requires the child to use both hands. Most kids suck their thumbs when they are tired, so have your child hold a book or favorite stuffed animal until they fall asleep.

Turn the quitting process into a special secret. Maybe a parent can share with her child something they successfully gave up and how hard it was. If that can be something you have in common they will more than likely feel proud that they can give up something too.

Authority figures like doctors can be very influential to a child who doesn't always do what mommy and daddy say. Have the child's pediatrician or dentist try to influence the quitting process to make them feel like they are growing up just right.

Friends are very important people in a child's life. If none of the above works, you can always resort to peer pressure. Invite their non thumb sucking friends over for a play date or sleepover and if your child starts sucking his thumb, maybe a friend will speak up. This just may be the motivation they need to stop.

Article Resource: Stacie Kolberg