Babies need their pacifiers. These simple elements allow them to suck, one of the most intrinsic and basic human needs.
Pacifiers are anatomically created to be used during the first two years of a child’s life. As a toddler gets older, parents start to take away the pacifier. Even if the pacifier is removed, children become accustomed to thumb sucking, a harmful habit that can lead to biting problems.
The pacifier must be removed before the toddler turns 3 years old. This is the time when the child’s jaw is developing and sucking on a pacifier could have a detrimental influence.
Problems related to the use of the pacifier
If the toddler continues to suck on a pacifier for more than two years, a number of problems could occur.
If the toddler sucks on the pacifier all the time, some of the teeth may be out of place and pushed forward. These deformations can result in chewing problems.
When the teeth are pushed forward, the child will begin to breathe through the mouth instead of the nose. The oral cavity will dry out faster, which increases the risk of caries.
How to get a toddler to stop using a pacifier
You need to get your child used to being calm without a pacifier at the age of eight months. This is when the child gradually stops sucking and begins to chew food.
Replace the pacifier with a rubber or gel toy that can be chewed. This will make the transition smoother, and the child will not stop sucking on something.
The child should not be subjected to additional pressure when trying to take the pacifier away. It is not appropriate to start the process if the parents are arguing or divorcing, if an older family member has passed away, or if any other traumatic event is occurring in the family.
Accustom the child to the fact that the pacifier will appear only at bedtime, helping him fall asleep effortlessly. If the child is used to sucking on the pacifier all the time, he will get used to sucking his thumb.
A young child’s need to suck on something is usually satisfied within several minutes. Provide the pacifier for short periods of time and then remove it. Give the child the pacifier only when you are sure that this is the specific item requested. If the child needs comfort, it is better to give him a hug than a pacifier.
Try to remove the pacifier from your child’s mouth, once the child falls asleep. Most children spit out a pacifier after 15 to 20 minutes of deep sleep. If the child wakes up, leave the pacifier. Otherwise, your toddler will experience trouble sleeping in an attempt to protect the favorite comfort item.
Many children demand their pacifier when they are bored or for strictly habitual reasons. In such cases, play with the child and do your best to keep him entertained and happy.
Get rid of the pacifier completely. This can be very difficult at first, but for many young children, the strategy is more efficient than a gradual approach.
Use a simple trick. Make the pacifier boring. Use a pin to pierce it. When the air comes out, the child will no longer enjoy sucking on the pacifier. Ask a friend to dress up as the Pacifier Fairy and take your toddler’s pacifier away, giving them a wonderful gift in return.
Be patient and kind with your child. Stopping using the pacifier should not become a traumatic experience. Comfort your child and provide entertainment that will ease the transition.
