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Suggest Ways To Wean Off The Habit Of Sucking Thumb In Children

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Posted on Thu, 31 Aug 2017
Question: My son is 3 month old , he is frequently taking his thumb in his mouth . What should i do ?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Arun (42 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
It is pretty normal , keep engaging him

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing to us.
Babies tend to take their thumb to mouth.
It is a pretty normal habit as babies enjoy sucking for pleasure. It will gradually go away if you can follow these tips
1. Keep him engaged with breastfeeding and patting, cuddling, cajoling. Don't leave him unattended for long time, if he gets bored he might start sucking his thumb.
2. Plenty of toys and music to keep him engaged.
3. Keep taking out thumb frequently. Breastfeed on demand frequently every one hour or two or three hours as per his demand.
4. Avoid bottle feeding. If formula feeding is required use paladai or spoon.

Regards
Dr Arun
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Arun (3 hours later)
Thx
doctor
Answered by Dr. Arun (7 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Welcome

Detailed Answer:
You are welcome
Regards
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
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Answered by
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Dr. Arun

Pediatrician, Pulmonology

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 1960 Questions

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Suggest Ways To Wean Off The Habit Of Sucking Thumb In Children

Brief Answer: It is pretty normal , keep engaging him Detailed Answer: Hi Thanks for writing to us. Babies tend to take their thumb to mouth. It is a pretty normal habit as babies enjoy sucking for pleasure. It will gradually go away if you can follow these tips 1. Keep him engaged with breastfeeding and patting, cuddling, cajoling. Don't leave him unattended for long time, if he gets bored he might start sucking his thumb. 2. Plenty of toys and music to keep him engaged. 3. Keep taking out thumb frequently. Breastfeed on demand frequently every one hour or two or three hours as per his demand. 4. Avoid bottle feeding. If formula feeding is required use paladai or spoon. Regards Dr Arun