Thumb Sucking

Parents worry if it is it normal if their toddler is still sucking their thumb, It’s considered normal until a child is 2 ½ years old

Why do kids suck their thumb?

Children tend to let go of this habit on their own, so it's best to let your child to stop on their own. For infants, it is a natural reflex that often begins in the womb. As babies grow, they learn a lot about their bodies and the world around them through sucking. They suck on their fingers, clothing, and toys.

Young children use sucking to soothe and comfort themselves. Since the action is relaxing, it often induces sleep—which is why parents notice children sucking their thumbs when they are tired. In fact, many thumb suckers fall asleep more easily, are able to put themselves back to sleep quicker, and sleep through the night much earlier than their non-thumb sucking peers.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), after a child's permanent teeth come in, thumb sucking can cause problems. It can interfere with proper mouth growth, teeth alignment, and cause changes to the roof of the mouth.

Here's how you can get your child on track.

Make them Think it was their Idea

The biggest mistake parents make is to nag their child about stopping to suck their thumb, instead remind your child about how they are growing up and becoming a big kid. Talking about ways they can become a bigger kids by doing certain things like helping around the house, not crying all the time, hopefully they will talk about not sucking your thumb, if not talk about it without nagging.

Weaken the Habit
Take note to the times you child sucks their thumb, is it when their tired or watching TV? They keep their hands busy by having them hold the book they want you to read at bedtime. Or have them color a picture while watching their favorite TV show.

Help Them to Notice
Work out a secret single that you can give your child when you see them sucking their thumb, this will help to limit the embarrassment when you say something in front of other.

Seek help from Others
Sometimes you may need to illicit help from doctors or dentist. Because they are authority figures their talks about growing up may be all you need.

Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can help to if friends see your child sucking their thumb they may say something and this might just be the right motivation to get your child to stop

Sources: http://toddler.yeahbaby.com/