Nobody likes to feel anxious, and children can struggle with these big emotions in particular, as they often lack the coping mechanisms that adults have developed. Just like an adult brain, their mind will search for the best ways to reduce the discomfort so they can feel more secure. Thumb sucking is one of the most common ways young children use to calm themselves during stressful moments. Read on to find out why thumb-sucking peaks during stressful moments.
It Releases Feel-Good Hormones
Sucking on a finger or pacifier releases chemicals in the brain, including dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which can cause physical and emotional discomfort. This occurs due to the stimulation of pressure points in the mouth and tongue, providing a sense of relaxation and pleasure. In stressful moments, these feel-good hormones can help alleviate feelings of anxiety or fear, making thumb-sucking a soothing coping mechanism.
For example, if your child becomes stressed when you drop them off at school, their brain seeks a solution. Sometimes, this means thumb-sucking, especially if your child already has a habit of doing it, as their mind associates it with feeling better.
It’s a Comfort Instinct
At birth, babies already instinctually know to suck their thumb or finger as a source of comfort. As infants grow into toddlers, their brain connects the habit to feeling better due to the release of those feel-good hormones. This means that anytime your child feels uncomfortable, their brain triggers this response.
It’s Habitual
Another reason why thumb-sucking peaks during stressful moments is because what was once natural for their age becomes a habit. During infancy, thumb-sucking is a form of positive reinforcement that helps children learn how to self-soothe. However, this becomes problematic if it continues into late toddlerhood since your child should develop other methods of coping by that point.
Moreover, thumb-sucking can become a subconscious habit for children. While it may sound strange, some kids may suck their thumb when they’re uncomfortable and not even realize it because it has become so ingrained in their behavior. This can be particularly problematic if the child is in a social setting or at school, as it may cause embarrassment or teasing from peers.
How To Stop The Habit
Understanding why your child sucks their thumb is a great first step to ending the habit. Once you trigger their stressors, you can work on addressing those issues and finding healthier coping mechanisms. Plus, there are numerous ways to break finger-sucking. While some children thrive on praise, others may benefit from a reward system.
Some children require extra assistance to quit thumb-sucking, and devices such as TGuard’s Aerothumb make this process simple for both of you. The glove slides over your child’s thumb, features slits on the sides to prevent a suction sensation, and includes a wristlet to secure it in place. With patience, understanding, and the right tools, you can guide your child toward breaking the habit and building confidence in managing their emotions.
