Should you try to stop a thumb sucker? It depends.
What You Need to Know
The NYU Child Study Center says that more than three-quarters of infants suck their thumbs or fingers through the first year of life. For infants, thumb sucking allows them to soothe and entertain themselves. This often happens when a child is tired or bored.
- Under the age of five, children shouldn’t be pressured to stop sucking their thumbs. Most children will give it up before they enter kindergarten.
- After the age of five, thumb sucking can contribute to social difficulties, dental problems, and minor physical problems.
- It’s important to give your child positive support and guidance.
How You Can Help
If your child is more than five years old, here are some suggestions on getting them to break the thumb sucking habit.
- For one month, don’t mention it. If it is continuing due to a power struggle, this may help diffuse that.
- Make a progress chart and offer rewards to celebrate your child’s success.
- Use a bitter-tasting liquid, mittens, or gloves at night as a reminder.
- Give your child lots of support and praise!
For more on this topic, see the complete article:
http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Thumb_Sucking/
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