 Thumbsucking Habits
Thumb/fingersucking is often associated with stress. Some of the clinical manifestations are: Altered facial appearance, cross bite, anterior over jet, lips irreversibly stretched by protruding teeth, deep narrow palate, and calluses on thumb or finger. At age five, children are generally ready to stop the habit. Children must be motivated to decide to end the habit. Some suggested interventions are:
-Increase the child’s awareness of problems related to thumb/finger sucking.
-Read a book like “David Decides” for information and motivation
-Block hand-to-mouth movement
-Add incentives for success like special privileges or desirable outing
-Use a chart to keep count of successful thumbless days and nights and stickers. Give a reward after the first day or night and again after 5 stickers.
-Help the child become aware by covering the thumb or finger with a bandage
-Put socks on hands at night
-Praise success; do not dwell on failures
Results can take two weeks to two months of parent support. If you have any questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. |
