Babies sucking their thumbs is a common sight and something that most parents notice in their children. This behavior is normal and generally safe in the early stages of life. However, as the child ages, it is important to address this habit so that it doesn’t lead to long-term effects. Let’s take a brief look at why babies suck their thumbs.
It’s Instinctive Behavior
At birth, babies have numerous reflexes that help them survive and flourish as they navigate the world with their parents’ guidance. The sucking reflex is a crucial instinctive behavior that newborns naturally have since it aids with nursing. Interestingly, thumb-sucking can start as early as 15 weeks into gestation, when babies are still in the womb.
At birth, sucking behaviors help babies with important tasks, such as eating and breathing. Since their primary source of nutrition is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, knowing how to suck on objects is essential. Sucking also helps them clear their airways, making it easier for them to breathe while they are still learning to coordinate their muscles.
It Provides Comfort
Infants also suck their thumbs because it provides a source of comfort that helps them self-soothe. This is because sucking on a finger, thumb, pacifier, or anything else provides a calming effect for infants. It releases hormones, such as endorphins. The chemical reaction promotes feelings of bliss and relaxation.
The calming effect of thumb-sucking can help babies self-soothe during moments of discomfort or separation from their caregivers. Sometimes babies continue this behavior into toddlerhood and childhood because they rely on the sensation of sucking to soothe themselves during moments of stress or anxiety.
Should Parents Worry?
As we delve deeper into this brief look at why babies suck their thumbs, it’s important to understand when this behavior becomes concerning.
Generally, thumb-sucking isn’t concerning during the first year of life. You may not want your baby to suck on their fingers in public places due to germs; however, within the first year, thumb-sucking poses little risk to dental health. At this age, babies have milk teeth, which permanent teeth will replace as they approach childhood.
Thumb-sucking becomes concerning between the ages of three to five years old. Think of age three as a warning sign, as most kids naturally stop sucking their thumbs around this time. If your child continues sucking their thumb at four to five years old, take action and help them kick the habit. Continuing thumb- or finger-sucking at this age can lead to dental and jaw issues, such as high palates, crossbites, overbites, and underbites.
Parent Tip
There are numerous ways to stop a thumb-sucking habit, and products such as the AeroThumb help discourage it without overwhelming a child. The earlier you tackle this behavior, the easier it is to help your child thrive. Remember to stay patient and positive as you work with your child to break the thumb-sucking habit.
