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Thumb sucking: It’s a common occurrence, often labeled as a “problem.” A quick Google search reveals countless results about the “truth of thumb sucking” and how to help children stop the habit. Many seek advice on potential dangers, but I’m not one of them. My daughter is eight years old, and I’ve never sought out methods to curb her thumb-sucking. Why? Because she is healthy and content. Sucking her thumb provides her comfort during tough times, offering her a sense of peace that is innocent and reminiscent of simpler days.
I understand that this might seem unusual. As she gears up to start third grade, her room is a blend of childhood treasures and pre-tween items. Her dollhouse is filled with a mix of LOL dolls and Barbies, and her makeup collection ranges from play to real cosmetics. Yet, one thing remains constant: her thumb. While clothes and toys come and go, her beloved stuffed animal, Giraffey, and her thumb are inseparable. She only indulges in thumb sucking when holding her cherished toy, typically at night or during emotional moments. And I’m completely fine with it. After all, there are far worse ways for her to seek comfort, and thumb sucking isn’t a significant issue.
Her pediatrician has expressed concern in the past, noting that prolonged thumb sucking could impact her dental health — and it has. She has a noticeable gap in her front teeth that will likely require braces, along with some minor spacing issues. Fortunately, her speech remains unaffected, and even if she did develop a speech impediment, my love for her would remain unchanged. I would ensure she gets the care she needs, including visits to an orthodontist. However, I refuse to engage in a battle over this habit. I won’t force her to stop or scold her. It simply isn’t worth it.
She will quit when she feels ready. Just like any other habit, this one will fade away in due time.
Interestingly, I raised her without the use of pacifiers. Throughout my pregnancy, I worried about issues like nipple confusion. My daughter was primarily breastfed and grew up without any artificial nipples. Yet, one day, she discovered her thumb. It became her method of self-soothing during nap time, and it has remained that way for eight years now.
The American Academy of Pediatrics explains on its Healthy Children website that thumb or finger sucking is a natural way for young children to comfort themselves. As they grow, they typically relinquish both the habit and the transitional objects they rely on for comfort. The site reassures parents that while a child might still use thumb sucking for sleep or calming, it usually happens in private and isn’t harmful. Pressuring a child to stop can often lead to more harm than good. Rest assured, children usually outgrow this habit on their own.
Is my child too old for thumb sucking? Perhaps. After all, she is eight and entering third grade. She can pack her own lunches and tackle state assessments. But is there a strict timeline for childhood? Should we rush our kids to grow up because society dictates it? Why the hurry? If thumb sucking provides her solace, who am I to take that comfort away? Life is challenging enough, especially in today’s world.
So please, if you notice my daughter sucking her thumb, refrain from shaming or mocking her. This habit will eventually pass. She won’t head off to college still indulging in thumb sucking.
For more insights on parenting and related topics, you can check out some of our other posts, including one on home insemination kits. Additionally, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource for those interested in artificial insemination. For comprehensive information on pregnancy, Medline Plus provides an excellent resource here.
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Summary:
Thumb sucking is a normal behavior in children, and many parents grapple with concerns about its impact. Despite potential dental issues, many children, like my eight-year-old daughter, find comfort in this habit. It’s essential to approach the situation with understanding rather than pressure, as children often outgrow such behaviors on their own. Ultimately, if thumb sucking brings peace, it’s worth allowing them to continue until they are ready to stop.