Sucking a thumb is a common general habit that most babies and toddlers take part. To them, it is a calming mechanism. However, to parents, it is a habit that needs to be broken. Try to understand that this is a temporary habit that will eventually be stopped. Here are some ways to deal with your toddler's sucking thumb. One can (Age 2-7) stop Thumb Sucking,stop finger sucking by The Hand Stopper thumb guard for thumb sucking.
Recognize that they might suck their thumb for comfort
Many children are involved in sucking a thumb because they might be tired, upset, scared, or easily offended. If this is the problem, try to calm your child another way. If they are tired, push them to take a nap. If they are bored, play with them or read books. If they need to be appeased, take, rub your back or hug with them. Try to encourage other ways to calm yourself.
Hold the desire to scold or suppress your child
Try not to give your child too much negative attention because they suck their thumb. Scolding they can hurt their feelings, and can endanger their self-esteem. Teasing can actually encourage them to continue to suck their thumbs, especially if they hear something like, "Only a baby who sucks their thumb!". Dealing by sucking your toddler thumbs can be approached in a more efficient way.
Introduce the withdrawal system, especially if the child is older
Gradually set some limits on how much your child sucks his thumb. For example, tell your child that there are certain rooms that are not allowed to suck their thumb. You can even set a timer to limit thumbs to suck a certain time. Starting at half an hour, then gradually reduces the time every two or three days. This will be a tactic that is much easier than cutting them from a cold Turkey.
