Habits
Common habits are thumb-sucking, biting fingernails, and nose picking
Most habits go away over time and should be ignored
Consider how much the habit bothers you and your child’s age
Great Options
Redirect - “You are a big boy. Your thumbs are for grabbing things, not sucking.”
Teach why - “Sucking your thumb might make your teeth grow in crooked.”
Set future expectations - “Let’s think about other things you might be able to do in the future when you feel the urge to suck your thumb.”
Later, give praise - “Awesome job yesterday. I never saw you suck your thumb.”
Good Options After Others Have Been Tried
Change your daily schedule
Not Recommended
Punishment - it may cause stress and do more harm than good.
