Sucking the thumb is a habit that might seem very cute, especially in newborn babies. However, it is a habit that can continue as the child grows and, later on, cause problems for the child.
The habit of sucking the thumb can begin even in the womb. It is common for mothers to report that on the ultrasound, during pregnancy, the fetus appeared to be sucking its little finger or hand. This happens because babies have a sucking reflex that is very strong and tend to want to suck whatever is close and easy to reach 1. This is part of the training for breastfeeding, which is their main source of food and will be essential to their survival in the first period of life. But it is also natural for this reflex to disappear over time. Around 4 months old, some babies stop sucking their thumb on their own. Others end up continuing this habit, even using it at bedtime and associating it as a way to calm or comfort themselves. That is when it can turn into a problem.
Thumb sucking can cause various issues for child development. If it continues as the child grows, it can interfere with the alignment of the teeth, leading to the development of crooked teeth. Another common problem in these cases is damage to the facial bones, especially the jaw, which ends up suffering pressure from thumb sucking, as it is usually the thumb that pushes against the roof of the mouth 2. 
How can you get a child to stop sucking their thumb?
This will certainly be a difficult and complicated task, especially if the child is older and has had this habit for years, since birth. The first step is to observe to know where to start and how to act. The second step is to check when and how the child sucks their thumb. Some only do it to fall asleep. Others put their thumb in their mouth to relieve stress or sadness. It’s so automatic that they often don’t even realize they’re doing it. The key is to find out the reason that leads them to act this way, and then find the best way to help them break the habit.
In the case of babies, some pediatricians recommend that parents offer a pacifier instead, shifting the thumb-sucking habit to a pacifier. Even though this may not be the best idea, since pacifiers are also harmful for tooth development, it’s easier to take away and to limit the use to certain times. When it comes to older children, from 4 to 6 years old, talking and encouragement may be the best remedies.
Praise your child when they manage to go without sucking their thumb or develop a reward system for each day they manage to sleep without needing to suck their thumb. Show them that it’s possible to do what they’re used to doing without using their thumb. If they suck their thumb to relax, sleep, or watch television, try developing another habit. Maybe holding a stuffed animal or a favorite blanket instead?
Some parents use the tactic of covering the thumb, either with a bandage, a band-aid, or even a wrap. The fact that the thumb is not as readily available will create some reluctance in the child. But above all strategies for helping your little one break the habit of thumb sucking, the most important is to talk to them. No matter what their age, parents should explain why it’s not healthy and why they should stop.
The child won’t drop the habit of thumb sucking if they don’t want to as well. Some, due to pressure from their parents to stop sucking their thumb, end up continuing and focusing even more on the habit out of pure stubbornness. Instead of helping, this only makes the problem worse. So, dialogue, patience, and a lot of creativity will be essential to solve this situation 3.
See also: Worms in Children – What To Do?
Photo: Justin Henry, Martin LaBar
