My 2½-year-old daughter sucks her thumb constantly. Should I be worried? How can I get her to stop?
– Craig

Childhood habits like thumb sucking are not usually something to worry about. In fact, many young children suck their thumbs, probably as a way to cope with stress or anxiety. Thumb sucking can be soothing and comforting to a child. Most childhood habits go away on their own — especially if a parent ignores them.

If kids continue to suck their thumbs later on, it may cause shifts in their teeth. If your daughter doesn't seem to be outgrowing her thumb sucking, try some positive reinforcement. Reward her with an extra bedtime story or another favorite treat when she doesn't suck her thumb. Be generous with the praise, too. And remember, most habits at this age are just passing phases.

For more information, check out these articles:
Mouth and Teeth
Keeping Your Child's Teeth Healthy
Your Child's Habits
Childhood Stress
Helping Kids Cope With Stress

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: January 2007
Originally reviewed by: Neil Izenberg, MD

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