Use Instead of a Dummy
Dummies are a common way for babies and toddlers to soothe themselves at bedtime. They also help young children cope with stress and can calm themselves when you aren’t there. However, frequent dummy use can negatively impact your baby’s weight and milk production. Furthermore, frequent use of dummies can prevent your child from developing a healthy teat and preventing proper feeding at the breast. Dummies are often used by older children or toddlers who are refusing to nurse because of teething or another unpleasant experience.
You can help your child become more independent by finding alternatives to dummies. You can buy a baby doll, an action figure, or an imaginary friend and show it to your child as a reward. Your child may have discomfort or protest when you start the transition without the dummy, but a new toy will be a positive reinforcement. By rewarding your child for good behavior, your child will begin to recognize that the world is not always fair and will help them grow into an independent adult.
It’s important to remember that it’s up to you when it’s time for your child to stop using a dummy. The best time to remove it from your child’s mouth is when you can talk to them about it. It’s not easy for them to stop using a pacifier, so it’s important to make the transition as easy as possible. It’s better to start small and give your child time to adjust to life without a dummy.
What Can I Use Instead of a Dummy?
Once your child is ready to give up the dummy, reward him or her for doing so. You may find that your child won’t be ready to let go immediately, but he or she will eventually learn to use alternatives. Don’t rush the process. A gradual transition will make the transition more successful and will lessen the risk of your child developing dental problems later on. There’s no need to feel guilty for giving up the dummy.
The most important thing is to let your child know when he/she is ready to stop using it. Don’t force the decision. It’s better to give up gradually, and it’s best for your child’s health. When your child is ready, he or she will want to play with his new toys, but a pacifier should be kept for comfort.
Rewarding your child for good behaviour is an essential part of a successful dummy-free transition. Although a dummy may be comforting, it will not help your child develop the brain skills necessary to be able to speak properly. Moreover, it might even cause him/her pain. So, try to reward your child in ways that he or she will find pleasant.