Ways to Stop Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking is a natural thing for babies. They reflexively will suck on anything put in their mouths and started a lot of finger or thumb sucking them even before they are born. It's not unusual to see a young baby and toddler sucking their thumbs, but it could be a problem as they get older.

Constant thumb sucking can cause oral and dental defects plus create a social stigma if the habit persists beyond the age of 4 or 5. If you are concerned about your child's thumb or finger sucking, the following are ten ways to help break the habit. You can also visit https://www.amazon.co.uk/Age-2-7-Stop-Thumb-Sucking/dp/B00VQU2DZS to look for thumb sucking prevention devices online.

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Reduce anxiety – Thumb sucking is one way for children to cope with anxiety or stress. This is a way for them to entertain themselves because of sucking soothing and calming. If your child is prone to sucking his thumb during a stressful situation, help to give extra attention and find another way for him to cope with anxiety.

Disturbance – Keep your child's hands are busy with other activities will help to reduce the chance of sucking her thumb. Toys, games, and puzzles can be used to distract children when thumb head to the mouth.

Education – Talk to your child about thumb sucking and let him know that he would eventually want to stop. Explain how this is something babies do, but children and adults do not.

Provides a good example – Point out other children and relatives who do not suck their thumbs and invite friends who have kicked the habit to come and play.