Habits

Common habits are thumb-sucking, biting fingernails, and nose picking

Most habits go away over time and should be ignored

Consider how much the habit bothers you and your child’s age

Redirect - “You are a big boy. Your thumbs are for grabbing things, not sucking.”

Teach why - “Sucking your thumb might make your teeth grow in crooked.”

Set future expectations - “Let’s think about other things you might be able to do in the future when you feel the urge to suck your thumb.”

Later, give praise - “Awesome job yesterday. I never saw you suck your thumb.”

Change your daily schedule

Punishment - it may cause stress and do more harm than good.