Thumb sucking habit of the little one seems cool at the start but when he grows to 4 or 5, everybody around starts to warn about social embarrassment problems and even interference with speech development, thus this habit starts irritating parents.
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex that babies do in order to self-soothe and calm themselves. However, for some kids, this habit can continue into their toddler, preschool, and even school stages. Definitely, your kid will never go to college with the sucking thumb (lol) but still, this habit is what you should care about a little to fade off in the early stages.
Easy Ways to Stop Thumb Sucking in Kids
Thumb sucking is a tough habit to break, but with time and patience, it can be done.
If you’re dedicated and motivated, there are many easy ways to stop thumb sucking, that I’ve got covered here to fix this habit quickly and easily.
1. Put Thumb Guards
One of the most effective and easiest ways to stop thumb sucking in your child – purchase a thumb guard like TGuard!
This is a special thumb protector designed to break the habit. It also provides comfort thanks to air holes and flexible body!
2. Use a bitter-tasting product
Some parents apply soap, sunscreen, or other unappealing liquids to discourage their kids from continuing with the habit. I’m not sure whether it works for you, but I believe it’s worth trying at least once in your life.
The affordable and best bitter-tasting product is nail polish. Sounds weird! But I suggest putting it on your child’s thumb, so he won’t be able to put it in their mouth.
3. Make them aware of the dangers
It’s never too early to teach good habits, so take this opportunity to have an effective conversation and talk about the problems that can arise from thumb-sucking.
Some key consequences that you can explain to your little one include the spread of germs. Even some kids found to stop this bad habit due to their friends’ fear (of what others will think about their bad habit) so it’s good to realize them about social bullying – this may help them want to stop.
4. Try to divert your child’s attention
For younger kids, try giving them a toy or playtime activity that will keep their hands occupied. For older kids, you can teach them how to knit, make beaded jewelry or remind them of upcoming school projects, so they keep busy instead of thumb-sucking.
You can also offer your child activities such as: drawing or coloring, playing with clay or play dough or origami folding.
Useful For You: Find lots of interesting and exciting “Play and Learn” products for kids here at a minimal price!
There’s a variety of awesome stuff here that your kid will love and will help keep their hands busy!
5. Offer alternative comfort items
You can offer your child a comfy blanket, soft toy or stuffed animal, that they can hold and cuddle to comfort themselves instead of sucking their thumb.
This is a good way to stop thumb sucking by redirecting kid’s soothing needs.
6. Identify triggers and find alternatives
Observe your child more to understand exactly in which situations and emotions they start thumb sucking. Once you identify the triggers, find alternatives to this habit. For example, if a child starts thumb sucking when they are anxious, give them a stress ball to squeeze instead or teach them deep breathing exercises.
7. Give your child support
It’s vital that you show your child lots of encouragement and support when they’re trying to break the thumb-sucking habit. You should praise them for everything they do well, whether it’s resisting the temptation or simply making an effort to stop this unconscious activity.
? Recommend Read: How to stop getting frustrated with a child?
8. Don’t let them feel bad
Your kid may feel embarrassed if they continue with the thumb-sucking habit. Although it’s important to show that you care about him, go let off parenting guilt and avoid making your child feel bad.
9. Don’t punish your kids for thumb-sucking
This is indeed one of the essential and easy ways to stop thumb sucking.
Never punish your children for thumb-sucking – this could make them more likely to continue with the habit.
10. Don’t press your kids to stop
Although you should encourage your kid to stop doing the habit, you shouldn’t push them too hard. Refrain from making threats like “stop thumb-sucking” or “I’ll take away your favorite toy” – this will only make your child more likely to resist and continue with the behavior.
? Recommend Read: How to stop my SON from chewing his fingers?
11. Establish a reward system
Try to create a reward system to encourage your child to stop thumb sucking. Set a goal and offer small rewards. Such an offer can motivate the child to quit the habit.
12. Make a visual reminder
Get creative and make a visual reminder for your child. For example, it could be a colorful bracelet or sticker on their hand as a reminder not to suck their thumb.
13. Time and patience
Remember, breaking the thumb-sucking habit takes time and patience. Be understanding and supportive throughout the process. Celebrate their progress, and if they slip up, reassure that it’s okay and encourage them to continue their efforts.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, to overcome the habit of thumb sucking you need patience, understanding and the right approach to your child.
Apply these easy ways to stop thumb sucking and remember to approach the process with positivity and encourage your child along the way!
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Alex is a passionate writer who shares his thoughts with strong facts and evidence. His research skill is amazing allowing him to write on life tips and development advice that the readers pursue.
