Help your Child Kick the Thumb Sucking Habit
Submitted by: Kevin Chertkow

Thumb sucking is a concern many parents have. Toddlers suck their thumbs because it's comforting and calming. It's probably something they did before they were born and revert back to it when they are nervous, agitated, scared or ill.  They may also use it to lull themselves back to sleep in the middle of the night.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) you shouldn't be too concerned unless it continues after the age their permanent teeth begin to appear, around six years old. Experts say that it's the intensity of the thumb sucking and the tongue's thrust that deforms teeth and makes braces necessary later. Children who rest their thumb passively in their mouth are less likely to have difficulty than children who suck aggressively. If you're concerned, closely monitor your child and analyze his technique. If they appears to be sucking vigorously, you may want to begin curbing their habit earlier.

How to help them kick the thumb sucking habit?
Well, punishing or nagging your child to stop won't help because it's usually an automatic response. Attempting to curb it by putting an elastic bandage on his/her thumb or another method will seem like unjust punishment, especially since they indulge in the habit for comfort and security.

Try to wait it out. Children usually give up thumb-sucking when they've found other ways to calm and comfort themselves. Consider offering them other alternatives to comfort themselves such as a soft blanket or lullaby toy. You could also try to encourage them to realize how much they have grown and changed. Point out how grown up they've become because they do not use diapers, bottles or high chairs. Let them know you are proud of them. If these things don't seem to work, then you should suggest it.

The key is to notice when and where they are likely to suck their thumbs and offer an alternative.  If it happens while they are tired, try giving more naps.  If they suck their thumb frequently while watching television, try to distract them with a toy that will keep their hands occupied. 

Older children may need gentle reminders to curtail thumb sucking while in public, and praise should be given freely when the child finds and uses an acceptable alternative.  Your child's pediatric dentist can offer other suggestions for helping your child kick the thumb sucking habit.

Consider peer pressure. Friends can be very important to this age group.  Invite some of his/her friends over who do not suck their thumbs. This can be very helpful if your child's friends mention it. It could be the motivation they need to quit.

Another great way to help them relize it's time to stop sucking their thumb is to have them talk to your child's pediatrician or dentist. It can work wonders. These authority figures have been a constant in his life. They can help him feel that he wants to stop sucking his thumb because he/she is growing up.

This process could take a little time so patience is needed and encouragement are the tools for this job.