As a parent, you would do anything in your power to make sure your child grows up healthy, happy and safe. But what if your child’s bad habit puts that in jeopardy? Thumb sucking is common, and for most children, it’s a behavior that stops with age.
But some children can’t get rid of the habit, and it can lead to damage as their mouths develop. Keep reading to find out what’s normal, what isn’t, and how you can protect your child. You can purchase thumb sucking prevention devices via online sources.
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First, thumb sucking is absolutely normal for babies and toddlers. Infants can even be seen on the ultrasound, sucking their thumbs. These small explorers discover their world with the help of their mouths, but that encouragement should begin to subside around the age of six months.
How you can help your child quit the habit?
First, realize that thumb sucking is not inherently indicative of any disturbance; it is just an unhealthy habit for your child. And while it is important that your child stop as soon as possible to avoid complications with their development, to understand that children who suck usually do it to calm down.
Try to figure out why you feel the need to entertain themselves in this manner and address the stress. Second, involve your child in overcoming the problem. Third, work together to stop the habit. Praise your child for not sucking instead of scolding them when they do.