Child thumb sucking

When a child age 4 or older sucks the thumb, the youngster’s dental health may suffer. The American Academy of Paediatrics offers this advice to help end the habit:
Health Tips
* Use a sticker chart, rewards and kind reminders to praise your child for not sucking the thumb.
* Keep your child busy with fun activities, especially those that involve the hands, to prevent boredom.
* Explain to your child what you will do to help break the habit. If your child seems afraid or upset, consider another method.
* Do not put too much pressure on the child to stop, and never punish, tease or speak harshly to the child.
* Talk to the child’s dentist or paediatrician if you see changes in the child’s tooth alignment or roof of the mouth.