If your child is three years old or older and still sucks their thumbs, it is time to break the habit. Remember, this is a calming and stress-reducing action for them and it won't be easy to stop it.
Here are some tips for success:
Start Early – The younger you are, the easier it will be to break the habit. You can purchase thumb sucking devices online via https://www.amazon.co.uk/Age-2-7-Stop-Thumb-Sucking/dp/B00VQU2DZS. This will help you in getting your children get rid of this habit.
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Explain – Tell your child why thumb sucking is a bad behavior, eg. "It's bad for your teeth when you suck your thumb" or "There are germs on your thumb that you don't want in your mouth."
Setting Boundaries – Try to limit the amount of time your child sucks their thumbs while at home, in rooms and outside public spaces. Explain that this is a bedtime activity during the day and night.
Don't Criticize – Instead of causing a confrontation, praise them when they don't give a thumbs up and explain why that's the desired behavior.
Reward Good Behavior – Purchase posters and stickers to create a "progress chart". If a week has passed without sucking, at the end of the month offer a price with a special surprise.
Swap It – If they want to suck their thumbs, hold their hand or give them something comfortable like a blanket. This helps through emotional comfort.
Talk to Your Dentist – Some children benefit from having oral appliances, often called a "roof top" and "crib" in the mouth, that prevent suction. They are available in fixed and interchangeable versions.