Articles
Thumb sucking: Help your child break the habit
Should I try negative reinforcement?
Content
Why do some children suck their thumbs?
How long does thumb sucking usually last?
When should I intervene?
What can I do to encourage my child to stop thumb sucking?
Can the dentist help?
What if nothing works?
How long does thumb sucking usually last?
Many children stop sucking their thumbs on their own, often by age 6 or 7 months or between ages 2 and 4.
But even a child who's stopped sucking his or her thumb might go back to the behavior during times of stress.