THUMB SUCKING STRUGGLES
A thumb sucking baby is considered cute, but a thumb sucking toddler not so much.
WHY? Sucking is instinctive in babies, bringing comfort and soothing. The sucking action is soothing and helps your baby relax as he falls off to sleep.
EXPERTS SAY Thumb sucking well into toddlerhood can hinder proper mouth and tooth development. Don’t belittle your child. Rather look at rewarding him when he doesn’t suck his thumb. ”It’s important to acknowledge positive toddler behaviour by being specific in your praise,” recommends educational psychologist Melanie Hartgill. “Parents’ comments and reinforcement are what help teach the right behaviour.”
MOMMY TIP “I made a deal with Casey that for every time she went without sucking her thumb, she would get a gold star sticker. Her stickers eventually added up to a bigger reward.” – Janet
WHINING WORRIES
It’s one thing to let them get away with it at home, but public whining can be embarrassing, leaving you desperate to do what
