Thumb-sucking: Helping your child stop
Introduction
Many infants and young children calm themselves by sucking their thumbs. While most children will stop on their own between ages 3 and 6, some continue past the age of 4 or 5. Prolonged thumb-sucking can lead to serious dental and speech problems. By using lots of love, encouragement, and a few simple steps, you can help your child succeed in breaking the thumb-sucking habit.
What problems are caused by thumb-sucking?
Why is it important to stop prolonged thumb-sucking?
How do we start?
Where to go from here
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| Author: | Amy Fackler, MA Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: October 2, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine | |
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