Parenting Tips for Your 25-26 Month Old Toddler
Yes, thumb sucking is very common for children under 6 years old. It’s one way a young child has to comfort himself. If you suddenly stop your child from sucking his thumb or fingers, he may have trouble calming himself. Thumb sucking usually disappears on its own, especially if the child is not pressured to give it up.
Sometimes parents pull thumbs and fingers out of their young children’s mouths, because they are worried about dental problems. Dental problems do not usually occur until the child’s permanent teeth erupt at 5 or 6 years of age. Even then, there may be no ill effects from casual thumb sucking.
If you are worried about your child’s thumb sucking, keep track of how often he sucks and for how long. Take these notes for several days. This record will help you and your doctor or dentist discuss the situation and decide what to do about it.
