Dental problems: Thumb-sucking can sometimes affect a child’s bite by causing an overbite, the alignment of their teeth, or the way the roof of their mouth develops. Social problems: Children who suck their thumb may be teased, ostracized or bullied. Medical problems: Persistent thumbsucking can cause the skin on the thumb to shrivel, crack, or chap. It can prevent the nail from growing properly, or occasionally even a sore thumb caused by infections under and around the nail bed. [1] X Research source

For example, if your child sucks their thumb when they feel upset, you might gently remove the thumb from your child’s mouth, and offer a hug or some reassuring words to help them cope. Make sure to be non-threatening as you do this and make it a positive experience.

Do not use objects (such as blankets or stuffed animals outside of bedtime) as these can become lost or forgotten.

You might have a special cue or hand sign to alert your child of their thumbsucking. This can be helpful if you do not wish to embarrass your child around other children.

For example, put a sticker on the calendar for every night your child sleeps through the night without sucking their thumb. At the end of a week with no thumbsucking, give your child a small reward or prize - an extra bedtime story or a small toy.

There may be times when you get frustrated at your child or it doesn’t seem like they’re making progress. Stick with it and encourage your child to succeed.

Giving your child information and choices can help them feel in control instead of ashamed, embarrassed, or humiliated.

Have your child use their senses to feel calm. For example, have them take 3 deep breaths or close their eyes and imagine a forest. Label their stress as a monster so that they can learn to self-monitor. For example, say, “Looks like your anxiety monster is coming to visit. Let’s take 3 deep breaths so they go away. ”

This can be a good introduction for your child to stop thumbsucking. However, you will likely need to wean them from the covering over time by only using it at bedtime or while traveling.

If your older child is struggling to stop, ask your dentist to fit them with a mouth guard so that it will discourage thumbsucking and preserve your child’s teeth and bite.

If your child says, “Hey Dad, look!” and shows you they’re thumbsucking, stay composed and don’t react.

Keep a journal. Every time you catch yourself sucking your thumb, write it down. Note what’s happening and what you are thinking or feeling at that moment. Pay attention when you’re in situations that lead to thumbsucking. Simply being aware of your habit can help you end it.

While these methods can help you learn to stop sucking your thumb, they may not be long-term solutions.

If you feel stressed or anxious, try taking some deep breaths to help your mind and body feel calm. Engage in a daily relaxation practice (like meditation or yoga) to help you cope with daily stressors. [11] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source If you suck your thumb, then you may also have other habits that you would like to change. Work on finding good self-soothing habits to replace the ones you no longer want to have.

You can also pop a mint or a piece of gum in your mouth for a similar sensation.

Find a therapist by calling your local mental health clinic or your insurance provider. You can also ask for a recommendation from a physician or friend.

When using negative reinforcement, discontinue if your method leaves you feeling ashamed. You should never feel shame when discontinuing a habit.

If you slip up, identify what caused you to slip up so you can prevent the situation in the future. For example, if you felt stressed, find new ways to handle your stress. If you felt bored, have activities that you can access or focus on your to-do list.