Thumb sucking is a habit that many children develop – and many parents hate. Understandably, parents diligently search for methods to help their child keep their hands out of the mouth. Unlike pacifiers that parents can simply discard, thumbs cannot be detached. Thumb sucking serves as a security blanket, and may begin between the ages of 6 months to a year. However, there are a few practical tips that parents can adopt to help break this unattractive habit.

Patience

• Infants who begin to suck their thumb may outgrow the habit as they begin to crawl and walk. Parents that observe their baby beginning to suck his or her thumb may choose to give the child a pacifier.

Discourage Toddlers

• Although parents should not be overly concerned if their infant begins to suck their thumb, they should be concern if their toddler has a habit. The key to preventing a thumb sucking toddler is heading the problem off early. As soon as a child begins to walk, discourage them from putting their hands in the mouth. This may be challenging, especially if the child was a thumb sucker as a baby. However, consistently reminding the toddler to remove their hands will pay off. Parents may playfully frown their face or make "ugh" sounds that indicate to the child that thumb sucking is nasty.

Reward

• Although bribery is not recommended, parents should consider rewarding children. For children age four and up, parents could offer a special treat or reward if they can go an entire day or week without sucking their thumb.

Be Honest

• Parents should explain to older children the reason why they need to stop sucking their thumb. First, the hands are dirty. Secondly, thumb sucking is not a nice habit. Thirdly, thumb sucking may cause damage to teeth.

Bandage or Glove Hands

• Making a child sleep in gloves or putting a bandage on the thumb is an effective way of helping children to break the habit.