At birth, babies have several instincts that help them navigate the world. One of these reflexes, known as the digit-sucking reflex, encourages babies to suck on objects, especially fingers or pacifiers.
The digit-sucking reflex has close ties with rooting. These reflexes ensure that infants can obtain nutrition from breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Let’s get more into the digit-sucking reflex and why babies have it.
Comfort and Security
A primary function of the digit-sucking reflex is allowing babies to soothe themselves when they feel anxious or upset. Finger-sucking brings babies a sense of relief because it releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators. Likewise, endorphins can help reduce anxiety and create a sense of security, which is why many babies find relief in sucking on objects.
Bonus Fact
Sucking on their fingers or other objects also provides babies with a sense of familiarity and calm, making it easier for them to relax and fall asleep.
Developmental Stages
The digit-sucking reflex is most prominent in the early stages of life. It usually starts in the womb and continues through the first few months after birth. By the age of six months to one year, many babies quit finger-sucking as they find other ways to soothe themselves.
Oral Stimulation and Exploration
Another reason babies have the digit-sucking reflex is that it serves as a form of oral exploration. During this early stage of life, babies use their mouths to learn about their environment; by placing objects in their mouths, they can understand different shapes and textures.
Likewise, sucking on their fingers helps babies develop oral motor skills since it strengthens the muscles needed for chewing and speaking. More importantly, infants place objects in their mouths to determine what is and is not food as they expand their understanding of our world.
Problems With Prolonged Digit-Sucking
While digit-sucking is a natural part of infancy, prolonged finger-sucking can lead to complications if it continues through toddlerhood. Finger-sucking can lead to various issues, including the following:
- Jaw misalignment
- Speech impairment
- Malocclusion
- Frequent illness
If your child continues sucking their thumb or other fingers beyond the infancy stage, it’s time to take proactive measures to break the habit.
End Digit-Sucking
Knowing how to stop finger-sucking isn’t always easy, but the right approach simplifies the process for you and your child. The AeroFinger is a device that slides over your child’s hand and has an ergonomic design so that they can enjoy playtime and avoid digit-sucking. With the right approach, you can help your child move beyond this development stage and onto new self-soothing forms.
