David Decides about Thumbsucking

By: Susan Heitler, Ph.D. 

Five-year-old David sucks his thumb. His parents say it's time to stop. David is mad; his thumb feels good in his mouth. He talks with his sister, and then his brother. He asks them why they decided to end their sucking habits and how they stopped. Then, David decides.

The Parent Guide addresses myths and realities about thumbsucking.

• Do sucking habits make children less self-confident or more?
• Does thumbsucking really impact children's teeth and facial appearance?
• Can stopping sucking habits harm children emotionally?
• What are the keys to success in helping children end sucking habits?