Thumb sucking is one of the most common habits in young children. In this way, the child tries to get rid of negative emotions. Surely many parents have come across this at least once and wondered what measures to take. Thumb sucking negatively affects the bite and the formation of the child's lower jaw, and stomatitis is also possible.
Instructions
Step 1
It is necessary to find out the cause of the habit. It can be discomfort, stress, excitement. For example, when a child is taught to sleep in a separate room. In this case, it is necessary for one of the parents to stay nearby, read a fairy tale until he falls asleep. You can be allowed to take your favorite toy with you, this will add calmness and confidence to the baby. Often, a child will put his finger in his mouth when he is alone, when he is bored. Therefore, it is important for parents to pay maximum attention to the child, read books together, draw, play, watch cartoons.
Step 2
It is important to observe the child, at what moment he puts his finger in his mouth and to divert his attention, or try to offer an alternative: babies up to one year old can be given a pacifier, older children - drying. In no case should a child be blamed for this habit, ridiculed him, use force to pull a finger out of his mouth. You need to act very delicately so as not to harm the baby's psyche and not aggravate the situation.
Step 3
The child needs to be easily explained why he should give up this habit. Tell him that if he sucks his thumb, the teeth will not grow properly. You need to talk calmly, with love, clearly separating the baby and his habit. Do not intimidate the child, it will not be beneficial, but only cause additional anxiety.
Step 4
The baby's finger goes into the mouth automatically, so a reminder is needed. They can serve as a bright sticker glued to the finger, if the baby quickly removes it, a plaster cut into thin strips and glued in different directions will do. A layer of non-kusayka varnish can be applied to the nail. There is no need to smear with pepper or mustard, because with this hand the child can rub his eyes.
Step 5
If you cannot get rid of this habit on your own, then you should contact a child psychologist who will talk with the parents, determine the true cause of the problem and find ways to solve it.
Step 6
And most importantly, remember that it is not easy for a child to give up his habit, he may experience emotional discomfort, therefore, during this period, devote him the maximum amount of time, warmth, affection, encourage and support your baby.
