Most parents are anxious to help their children stop sucking their thumbs in order to prevent future dental problems. This is understandable, but it is important to remember that pushing too hard may cause your child to cling to thumb sucking more. Most children will stop thumb sucking on their own without adult intervention.
To encourage your child to begin to give up the habit of thumb sucking, try incorporating one or more of these techniques:
- Replace the habit: Most children suck their thumb without consciously thinking about it. Help your child stop by coming up with a replacement habit to keep their hands busy. This could include making a fist or holding a favorite small toy.
- Offer rewards: Set goals with your child and offer rewards when they are able to avoid thumb-sucking for a set period of time. Praise your child for trying and consider incorporating sticker charts, small treats, or fun surprises to help the process along.
- Provide reminders: When you notice your child sucking their thumb, gently redirect them. Always avoid harsh words or punishments.
If your child continues to suck their thumb despite your attempts to help them stop, talk with your healthcare provider, pediatrician, or dentist. There are dental tools that can be placed in your child’s mouth to prevent them from thumb sucking. They may also discuss placing a bitter substance on your child’s thumb to discourage the habit. Talk with your healthcare provider before trying one of these methods.
A Tip to Discourage Thumb Sucking
Remember to always use kind words and a gentle demeanor when discouraging thumb sucking. If you notice your child start sucking their thumb, momentarily pause what you are doing. This could mean pausing their show or stopping a bedtime story. Gently remind them to stop sucking their thumb and praise them for trying. Then resume your activity together.
Try not to worry if your child has a difficult time breaking the thumb-sucking habit. Too much pressure to stop thumb sucking may delay the process.