Thumbsucking is a phase many children go through. The habit can be calming or help manage hunger. Most stop between ages 2-4 with no real consequences. However, prolonged sucking is more serious. Below is a helpful guide to ensure your child stops before preschool.

A Parent’s Guide to Thumb-Sucking

What Long-Term Problems Does It Create?

Thumb-sucking creates unnatural pressure in the mouth. Over time, it will draw teeth forward, pull the jaw out of alignment, and even alter the roof of the mouth. This creates oral health problems like under-, over-, and crossbites. 

Your child’s thumb and thumbnail are also home to countless bacteria. By sticking their fingers in their mouths, they risk oral infections and other illnesses. If they have recently touched fingerpaint, newsprint, or dirt, they could wind up ingesting particulates they shouldn't.

How to Help Your Child Stop

Thumbsucking is a habit. Therefore, it can be hard to help your child reevaluate this reaction. First, remember never to criticize your child. Thumbsucking is a coping mechanism; causing stress may only result in them sucking more.

Instead, start by identifying triggers. You may notice your child does it when meeting strangers, visiting new places, or right before they leave you for preschool. Others may use it to soothe themselves before bed. Use this information to support them. Spend extra time comforting them before school and encourage them to share their feelings during stressful situations. Provide a stuffed animal to hold at night. 

In the future, gently remind them throughout the day to stop. You might also dabble a bit of vinegar on their thumbs to make sucking on them less appetizing. Reward them for progress and understand that it will take time.

If you’re looking for a preschool in Lincoln, NE, contact World of Knowledge Child Development Center. This educational facility offers nursery school, toddler development classes, and general child care services. Learn about their curriculum and instructors on their website. Call (402) 483-4769 to discuss enrollment.