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Child Sucking Habits

Glossary C Child Sucking Habits

Children suck on things because sucking is one of a baby's natural reflexes. It is normal for a baby or young child to suck on a thumb, finger or pacifier. Children usually give up sucking habits on their own by the time they are 4 to 5 years old. Children who are still sucking on a finger, thumb or pacifier when their permanent teeth start to come in are more likely to have bite problems. The amount of distortion caused by sucking depends on the intensity, frequency and duration, and the object.

Tips on how to get a child to stop sucking:

• Parents should use positive reinforcement.
• Track progress by noting every successful day using a sticker or star on a chart.
• Put an Band-Aid on the finger or thumb.
• Have a child wear a mitten when sleeping.
• Take the finger or pacifier out of your child's mouth after he or she falls asleep.