Babies are born with a reflex to suck any object placed in their mouth. This behavior helps during the first few months of establishing feeding, and disappears at around 4 months.
Thumb sucking however, is not reflexive, and is believed to be a self-soothing practice. There are usually no ill effects from thumb sucking in early childhood, and most children naturally give up the habit somewhere between 2-4 years of age. However, if thumb sucking continues past the age of around 7 when adult teeth are coming through there can be misalignment of front teeth, or possibly exacerbation of underlying jaw problems.
It is important to be careful when breaking a habit such as thumb sucking. Children often use this as an emotional crutch and sensitivity to the psychology behind the habit formation is necessary. Punishment and nagging is not the best approach. Here at MOG we have many happy children who have given up the thumb sucking habit voluntarily, it just takes some patience, persistence and encouragement.
Better Health Channel Victoria offers the following advice on their dental care page:*
- Reward your child and offer encouragement – for example, with a hug or praise to reinforce their decision to stop the habit.
- Limit nagging – if children feel they are being nagged they will become defensive.
- Mark their progress on a calendar – for example, place a star or a tick for each period (such as a day or week) that the child does not suck their thumb or finger. Provide a special outing or a toy if the child gets through the period successfully.
- Encourage bonding – for example, with a special toy.
- Reminders – give your child a mitten to wear as a reminder not to suck, or place unpleasant tasting nail paint (available from chemists) on the fingers or thumb. Placing a bandaid over the thumb at bedtime is another reminder.
- Offer distractions – while your child is watching TV, have toys available for children to play with. Sit with the child during this time and give a cuddle to help them not to suck. In the car, have toys available to keep them occupied.
* Source : Better Heath Channel
