Many parents worry about their infants sucking their thumb or fingers. There is always a worry of the habit continuing into childhood. But did you know that thumb sucking is a very normal reflex which your baby might be doing even before he was born. Here\u2019s why Thumb sucking is normal for newborns:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
a. Normal Reflex: Babies are born with the natural reflex of sucking as this is how they eat. Therefore, it\u2019s good that your baby has already learnt this skill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
b. Sucking helps baby feel secure and as he grows it makes him comfortable and happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
c. It also helps induce sleep and some babies want to suck their thumb before bedtime or when tired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How long is it acceptable?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Experts say that thumb sucking can be a problem if it persists beyond the age of 4. By that time, it can affect the developing jaws, and teeth causing misaligned teeth. Mostly children leave the habit on their own when they realise that it is not socially acceptable or when they start going to playgroups and have peer pressure to prove that they are grown enough to leave the habit. However, if you are finding it difficult to get rid of the habit, here are some practical tips that might help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n