Thumb-sucking: It’s a typical “issue.” A widespread “issue.” A dental concern that, when Googled, presents millions of results. Many are eager to uncover the “truth about thumb-sucking” and “how to break the habit.” They seek to understand the potential dangers, both real and imagined. But honestly, I’m not one of them. My daughter is eight, and I’ve never looked for ways to help her stop. There are two main reasons for this: She is happy and healthy. Sucking her thumb provides comfort when she’s tired or anxious. It gives her a sense of tranquility. It’s innocent and reminds me of simpler days.
I recognize it’s a bit unusual. She’ll begin third grade soon, and her room is a blend of childhood treasures and early tween items. Her dollhouse is filled with LOL dolls, Barbies are mixed in with characters from Rainbow High, and her pretend makeup kit sits alongside a real one bursting with blushes and glosses. Yet, her thumb remains a constant in her life. While her clothes change and toys come and go, her beloved Giraffey and her thumb are always there. The two are inseparable; she only sucks her thumb while holding her special toy. She does it at night or when she’s feeling particularly emotional, and you know what? I’m perfectly fine with it. After all, she could find solace in more harmful ways, and thumb-sucking isn’t a serious issue.
Her doctor might disagree; her pediatrician cautioned me years ago that prolonged thumb-sucking could impact her teeth — and it has. There’s a noticeable gap in the front that will necessitate braces, along with some minor spacing in the back. But nothing too alarming, just some cosmetic adjustments. The doctor also mentioned it could affect her speech, but, thankfully, that hasn’t been an issue. My daughter speaks clearly without any stutters or lisps. Even if she did develop a speech impediment, I would love her just the same. I would ensure she receives the necessary care. An orthodontist visit is definitely in her future. But I refuse to make this an issue. I won’t pressure her, and I certainly won’t scold her. It simply isn’t worth my energy or hers.
She will stop when she feels ready.
Eventually, like all habits, this one will fade away.
Ironically, I raised my daughter without pacifiers. Throughout my pregnancy, I stressed about nipple confusion and the potential damage pacifiers could cause. She was primarily breastfed and didn’t use a pacifier or artificial nipple. Yet, one day, she discovered her fingers. She began to self-soothe during nap time by sucking her left thumb, and that habit stuck around for eight years.
“It’s essential to remember that thumb or finger sucking is a normal, natural way for a young child to comfort themselves,” the American Academy of Pediatrics states on its Healthy Children website. “[Children will] gradually give up both the transitional object and the sucking as they mature and find other ways to handle stress.”
They also note, “While your child might still rely on sucking to fall asleep or calm down when upset, this typically occurs in private and isn’t harmful. Pressuring your child to stop may ultimately do more harm than good. Rest assured, your child will eventually stop the habit on their own.”
Exactly: children will stop when they are ready.
Is my daughter too old to be sucking her thumb? Perhaps. After all, she is eight and about to enter third grade. She can prepare her own lunches and take state tests. But is there a timeline for childhood? Should we rush our children into growing up simply because society indicates they should? Why the urgency? If thumb-sucking brings her comfort and peace, who am I to take that away from her? Life can be too difficult, too harsh, and far too serious, especially in today’s world.
So, if you see my daughter sucking her thumb, please don’t shame her. Don’t blame her or make fun of her. This habit will eventually pass. She won’t head off to college with her thumb in her mouth.
For more insights on parenting and childhood habits, check out this post on home insemination kit and learn about the importance of self-soothing behaviors. If you’re interested in further information, Cryobaby’s home intracervical insemination kit is also a great resource. Additionally, you can explore this excellent resource on family building options to support your journey.
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In summary, my daughter’s thumb-sucking habit is not a problem for me. It provides her comfort and peace, and I trust that she will outgrow it when she’s ready. It’s essential to allow children to find their own ways to navigate the stresses of life without unnecessary pressure.
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