Say Goodbye to Thumb Sucking: Here's How to Break the Habit!

Thumb-sucking is common in preschoolers. Other oral habits include finger sucking, tongue sucking, using pacifiers, and nail biting. Did you know that 30-45% of preschoolers have these non-nutritive habits? Surprisingly, 5-20% continue these habits beyond the age of 6.

Why do children develop these habits?

Thumb sucking usually starts as a way to feel calm. Kids often do it when they're impatient, scared, hungry, tired, or bored. It often decreases after infancy, but it can linger. This can affect how the mouth and face grow. It also affects skills such as eating, drinking, and talking. It can also affect breathing, sleeping, and dental health.

What have you done to try to stop these habits?

Families often use different ways to stop these habits. They might start with gentle reminders. If that doesn’t work, they may try stronger methods, like punishment or orthodontic appliances. But these approaches often miss the biological factors behind these habits.

When is the best time to intervene?

The best time to break these habits is before permanent teeth come in, usually between ages 4 and 6. With the right readiness factors, kids of all ages can beat these habits.

Is my child ready to stop these habits?

Willingness to Cooperate
Your child is a key participant in the process. It's important for your child to be able to understand reminders and practice exercises. Some kids might want to stop on their own, but others may need more help or encouragement. The child needs to want to join the program. They should also see how breaking the habit helps their growth and health.

Motivation
Motivation is key for a child to stop thumb-sucking. Children who understand why they should break the habit are more likely to succeed. Some kids need extra motivation. They might stop working if they earn small prizes or reward charts. The more invested they are in the process, the more likely they are to stick with it.

A supportive "team"
Kids need steady support from their caregivers at home for lasting success. Parents, caregivers, and teachers should work together. They need to help the child manage the habit. A team effort boosts the chances of eliminating the habit.

Ready to help your child stop thumb-sucking or other habits?

The first session is an assessment. We gather information to set a strong foundation for success. Parents and caregivers are key "positive partners" in the program.

In 4-5 more weekly sessions, we'll teach your family and child in a fun way. We will make personalized schedules. We’ll also create supports to help break the habit. We'll do exercises and watch videos. This will help with tongue placement and strengthen your child's mouth. Plus, we'll celebrate successes with PRIZES! You will have a home program with routines. Daily calls with your speech/language pathologist in the morning and evening will offer continuous support.

The final session will celebrate breaking the habit and discuss what’s next.

Contact us today to begin the journey of breaking oral habits and helping your child succeed!