Most parents see their babies suck their thumbs or fingers. Some parents notice their children continue this habit through toddlerhood and even early childhood. This can leave many parents wondering when finger-sucking starts, and it may be sooner than you think. Read on to learn more about this natural behavior and when it becomes an issue.
When Finger-Sucking Starts
Interestingly, ultrasounds show that thumb- or finger-sucking often begins in the womb. Infants instinctively continue this habit after birth, as it naturally soothes them.
However, although babies can begin sucking their fingers in the womb, not all infants are the same. Some start the habit several hours, days, weeks, or even months after birth. At this life stage, finger-sucking is natural and generally not problematic.
When Finger-Sucking Should Stop
Most children gradually quit finger-sucking as they outgrow the need for it. As toddlers become young children, they often gravitate toward other coping mechanisms for fear, boredom, and other emotions.
However, just like all children don’t startfinger-sucking at the same age, they also don’t stop at the same time. Usually, the habit stops between ages two and four, but that’s not a hard rule. Some kids easily drop the habit independently, while others may require a bit of gentle nudging from their parents.
When Finger-Sucking Is Problematic
Knowing when finger-sucking starts is vital to understanding when it’s an issue. The habit becomes problematic when it extends well into school-age years. Generally, children begin losing their teeth around the age of six or seven, and finger-sucking can cause misalignment of the jaw, palate, and teeth during this phase.
If a child continues finger-sucking beyond the age of five, it is often advisable to monitor the frequency and intensity. When the habit persists into school years, it may affect speech development, facial musculature, or interactions with peers (due to social isolation). Addressing this behavior gently during this stage can help normalize your child’s development while alleviating concerns.
Buy a Glove To Stop Finger-Sucking
Children who rely heavily on finger-sucking beyond the typical age range often require a hands-on approach to stop it. TGuard’s AeroFinger is one of the best ways to stop finger-sucking. This glove slides over your child’s hand and prevents them from creating suction when they suck on their fingers, removing the soothing element. By getting rid of the incentive to continue finger-sucking, AeroFinger is very effective in stopping the habit.