Babies have natural rooting and sucking reflexes, which can cause them to put their thumbs or fingers into their mouths — sometimes even while they're still inside your womb. Because thumb sucking is soothing to babies, some might eventually develop a habit of thumb sucking when they're bored, tired or anxious. Many children stop sucking their thumbs on their own sometime during the toddler years — between ages 2 and 4. For older kids who continue to suck their thumbs, peer pressure at school usually ends the habit. Remember, though, even a child who's stopped sucking his or her thumb might revert to the behavior when he or she is stressed or anxious.
How to help your child stop this habit?
1. Don't mention it. In some cases, paying no attention to thumb sucking is enough to stop the behavior — especially if your child uses thumb sucking as a way to get attention.
2. Use positive reinforcement. Praise your child or provide small rewards — such as an extra bedtime story or a trip to the park — when he or she isn't thumb sucking. Place stickers on a calendar to record the days when your child successfully avoids thumb sucking.
3. Identify triggers. If your child sucks his or her thumb in response to stress, identify the real issue and provide comfort in other ways — such as a hug or reassuring words. You might also give your child a pillow or stuffed animal to squeeze.
4. Offer gentle reminders. If your child sucks his or her thumb without thought — rather than as a way to get your attention — gently remind him or her to stop. Don't scold, criticize or ridicule your child. To spare embarrassment in front of others, you might alert your child to the thumb sucking with a special hand signal or other private cue.
Sign up or
login to eTobb to get personalized preventive health recommendations and timely reminders.
Annual Checkup
It is recommended that all individuals see a Family Doctor for a full medical examination annually. Adults should get their blood pressure checked (US Preventive Task Force), a flu vaccine (CDC) and more each year.
The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings for adults at least twice annually. Some stains can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
It’s recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that every adult between the ages of 18 and 80 does an eye examination at least once every two years.
It's recommended by the American Cancer Association that every adult between the age of 20 and 80 does an annual skin screening by a licensed dermatologist.
Take a step forward towards a healthier lifestyle. Stay connected to doctors and stay informed on the latest health topics that matter to you. Sign up to eTobb now!
Premium Question Order Summary 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Check if your question is new We may already have an answer for you
You asked for:
Your question is::
Premium Question: Second Opinion
Get help to feel good!
Get answers to your health concerns by asking our certified physicians. Share your medical files for review in eTobb Premium.
Talk to real doctors!
Find the right doctor from our network of over 1000 verified physicians. Check out their eTobb Profiles to learn more about them.
Be proactive, Be healthy!
Your health is our number one priority. We've provided you with a Health Engage meter that tracks how many personalized health recommendations you have completed.
Feedback
premium
Ask Doctors Choose a plan to ask your question
PREMIUM
Ask doctors anonymously
Question can include up to 2000 characters
Receive expert medical advice
Get priority for doctor answers
Attach files (i.e. blood tests, X-rays...)
Choose a specialist of your choice
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Your question will not be posted publicly
$6 / Question
Basic
Ask doctors anonymously
Question can include up to 150 characters
Get educational information
Free
Edit Question
مبروك!
شكراً لإهتمامك في الإنضمام إلى إي طب! تم إضافتك بنجاح على قائمة الإنتظار. للحصول على الوصول والدخول المبكر، قم بإبلاغ عائلتك وأصدقائك. كلّما أبلغت عنّا أشخاص أكثر كلما زادت فرصك للحصول على دخول مبكّر.
