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Q. My 5-year-old granddaughter sucks her thumb. Is there something that tastes bitter or unpleasant I can buy to put on her thumb to remind her to not suck it?
A. Most children give up on thumb sucking before they are 5. The American Dental Association says that thumb sucking does not cause problems until after this age.
You may be more successful distracting her with activities that require two hands. If your granddaughter wants to stop sucking her thumb, painting something yucky on it may help remind her to stop. Some parents have used pickle juice or vinegar.
Others use commercial products. Thum contains cayenne pepper extract and citric acid. Control-It has denatonium. These preparations taste bad and remind the child not to suck. Search online or ask your pharmacist to order one. There is also a Lycra glove-like device that covers the thumb. It is called Thumbusters.
Nagging is counterproductive. Most children will stop when they experience peer pressure.
I am a middle aged woman with a bad nail biting habit, even as a child. While I was smoking it eliminated the need to bite my nails, but, due to life changes, i am back to biting the nails again. I understand stress plays a vital role in this. Should I follow your guidelines related in the artticle for children who thumbsuck?
I am also on an anti-depressant (Paxil) since 9/11 after having lost a loved one. I am managing my stress better due to meds and therapy, but life happens and triggers stress and bad habits flare up again.
Any recommendations on the nail biting and could you recommend something for serotonin in terms of weaning myself off the Paxil eventually. I have suffered from depression pretty much all my life. A functional one. Hid my sorrow.
I also tried Listerine for my chronic dandruff situation. My head feels cool and non-itchy so far.
Your response would be appreciated whenever it is convenient for you.
Thank you.