Thumb Sucking of a Baby: Is That Normal
Do you know that some babies start sucking their thumbs inside the womb? Sucking is a primary activity and a newborn reflex action. Sucking is their first step to eating and exploring. Most babies will suck their thumb as a toddler. Some babies may start sucking thumbs while they are infants, while others may start after six months of age. Thumb-sucking is harmless. However, as a parent try to wean them off this habit before they turn three years of age.
Reasons for Thumb Sucking
It is normal for your baby to suck their thumb. Here are some of the reasons why babies love to suck their thumbs.
- Sucking is a normal reflex action for babies
- Sucking calms your baby
- Infants suck their thumbs to indicate that they are hungry
- Infants can also suck their thumb when they are sleepy or bored
- Babies love to explore their surroundings by putting things in their mouths. Thumbs are right there on their hands, so they just put them inside their mouth
Are There Any Benefits of Thumb-sucking?
Thumb sucking is natural and usually harmless. Just make sure that your baby’s hands are clean. Also, make sure to trim their nails to prevent them from scratching their face. Thumb sucking is your baby’s natural way of calming themselves. When your baby feels irritated, hungry, or sleepy, they suck their thumb to self-soothe.
How to Wean Thumb-sucking?
Ideally, your baby should get rid of the habit of thumb-sucking before their permanent teeth come out. Dentists say that sucking the thumb after three years can interfere with the growth of their teeth and even disturb the alignment of teeth. Sucking the thumb can also alter the shape of the mouth. You should try to wean them off this habit before they start going to preschool. Here are some tips to help you:
- Explain to your child that they are growing up and thumb-sucking is for babies
- Use positive reinforcements when they abstain from thumb-sucking
- Provide small rewards
- Set time limits like no thumb-sucking an hour before bed
- Identify the triggers and remove them to reduce their tendency to suck their thumb
- Do not scold, shame, or criticize
- Gently remind them
Most babies get over this habit on their own. Some babies may take longer. Be patient with your child and let them take time to get rid of this habit. Avoid using any cruel method like putting bitter juice on their thumb. For some kids, a visit to the dentist helps.