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Many babies and toddlers suck their thumbs. It’s normal and normal until it becomes a habit. Here’s how to stop thumb stubbing in children.
Thumb smacking is a common behavior in infants and young children that serves as a source of comfort and self-soothing. Parents often wonder why this happens and when to stop naturally. Typically, children stop thumb-sucking between the ages of two and four as they develop alternative coping mechanisms. Although some parents may find thumb licking cute or normal, it is important to address the habit because prolonged thumb licking can lead to dental problems. If this habit persists from childhood, intervention may be necessary to prevent potential dental problems and promote proper oral development. So, are you wondering how to stop stubbing your toe? You can gently encourage your child to break the habit in several ways. Read on to find out.
What are the causes of thumb sucking in babies?
Babies start thumbing soon after birth. In fact, some babies learn even in their mother’s womb, says pediatrician Dr Madhavi Bharadwaj. It is nothing but a habit for babies to get comfortable. Not only the thumb, but children can also develop the habit of licking their rubber toys. This habit makes them feel relaxed and secure, helping children cope with stress, anxiety or boredom. While thumb smacking is common and usually harmless, if your child sucks hard, it can have a significant impact on tooth alignment and growth.
Also Read: These 9 habits can cause trouble for your baby’s baby teeth
At what age does a child stop sucking his thumb?
Although there is no specific age, some children usually stop thumb-sucking by age 6 or 7 months, and some continue to suck their thumbs by age two to four. In fact, some children may continue the habit into childhood or beyond, especially if they feel stressed or anxious. According to experts, if a child sucks his thumb even after 5 years, it has become a habit and you should start making efforts to break the habit gradually.
What are the harms of applying chili paste on children to prevent them from biting their thumbs?
Applying chili paste on a child’s thumb to prevent thumb lick is harmful and dangerous. Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and even blisters. In addition, it can lead to discomfort and emotional distress for the child. It is safer and more effective to explore gentler, non-irritating methods to address thumb tapping habits.
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How to stop thumb swatting in children?
1. Identify triggers
Pay attention to situations or emotions that trigger thumb licks in your child. Is it boredom, anxiety or fatigue? By identifying these triggers, you can help your child find alternative coping mechanisms or distractions to replace the thumb snapping.
2. Keep your child busy
Give your kids alternative activities to keep their hands busy like playing with toys, drawing or playing any game. Providing a variety of distractions can help divert their attention away from thumb sucking.
Also Read: Parenting Tips: How to Check Your Child’s Mental Health Daily
3. Praise efforts, not just results
Encourage your child to stop thumbing by offering praise and rewards for their efforts. Even if an hour goes by without snapping a toe, focus on celebrating every little victory along the way. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in motivating your child to break a habit.
4. Provide chewable snacks
Keep healthy snacks on hand that require chewing, such as carrot sticks or apple slices. Encourage your child to snack on these when they get the urge to lick their toe.
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5. Give gentle reminders
Whenever you notice your child snapping their toe, gently and consistently remind them to stop. Avoid using harsh or insulting language, which may lead to feelings of guilt or anxiety in your child. Instead, offer gentle reminders in a supportive and encouraging manner.
What to do if a child sucks his thumb even at an older age?
“In this situation, talk to the child and observe when they put their thumb in their mouth. Instead of scolding or making fun of him in front of other people, solve the problem privately and try to understand their problem or perspective. Many times, children suck their thumbs when they are stressed or anxious or bored. So, try to help manage their stress levels and keep them calm and composed. If habits like leg tremors, nail biting or toe stubbing persist beyond 10 years, you may seek medical help,” says Dr Bharadwaj.
Keep these tips in mind to kick your child’s thumb-licking habit!