Step1
Wait for the problem to go away. Most children, but not all, outgrow the habit by the time their permanent teeth come in (about age 6). After this age, thumb sucking can cause dental and speech problems, but before then, many children still have a fairly strong impulse and need to suck.
Step2
Start to work on kicking the habit a little while before you expect your child's permanent teeth to come in. That way you can deal with it before it becomes a real problem.
Step3
Try to keep your child talking, which will make it hard for her to keep her thumb in her mouth.
Step4
Offer her activities to keep her hands busy: crayons or pencils and paper, squishy balls or toys to fiddle with, or models and puzzles to work on.
Step5
Consider working out a reward or praise system, using stickers and a chart or calendar.
Step6
Encourage your child with positive reminders that she is a big kid and that big kids don't need to suck their thumbs.
Step7
Explain to your child in simple terms why it is important for this habit to go away, and ask her to suggest a few possible solutions. Many children will come up with some creative possibilities.
Step8
Try putting a brightly colored adhesive bandage on your child's thumb as a reminder not to suck.
Step9
If your child sucks her thumb at night, consider having her wear a glove or sock on her hand while she sleeps.
Step10
Talk to your dentist, who may have helpful suggestions and who can also explain the dental consequences and options for treatment if thumb-sucking continues when the permanent teeth come in. Ask your dentist to have a talk with your child, if you think it will help.
Step11
Be patient with your child. Although thumb sucking is an unattractive habit, many children can't help themselves. Take the time your child needs to eliminate the habit gently and gradually, rather than criticizing or punishing.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 It's hard to stop sucking your thumb once you get used to it. I've found out that determination and the promise of adulthood braces go a long way towards curing the habit. Otherwise, it keeps coming back like a bad omen.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Putting a little aloe vera jell
that is freshly cut on the thumb
discourages the habit because it is bitter and otherwise not harmful in small quantities.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Definitely ask a dentist or orthodontist to talk with your child! They can explain the work they will have to undergo if the child continues sucking their thumb/fingers. I went through tremendous work for me to stop! I sucked my thumb until I was 13.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 If you don't try to stop it, know you'll be in for a big dentist bill.