How to Wean a Child From a Pacifier or Binky
Getting Kids to Give up Comfort Objects the Right Way, With Ease
Oct 24, 2009
A lot of parents are concerned about their children using pacifiers, especially when those children are sleeping. That's doubly true if the dentist has said pacifier use isn't a good idea. Some dentists do believe excessive pacifier use can harm a child's teeth, and others believe speech and language problems can come from pacifier usage in some cases. But getting a child to give up her pacifier is often easier said than done.
The good news is that it can be done. Any parent who's committed to weaning a child off a pacifier can do it with work and perseverance. It must be done in a way that the child doesn't really notice what's happening. It should be casual, friendly, and simple. Making a big deal out of the pacifier, or lack of it, will only make the child more anxious, which will usually result in her wanting the pacifier back.
Distracting a Child From Using a Pacifier
Distraction is a great tool when a parent attempts to wean a child from a pacifier. Things to distract a child can include:
- Pointing out something colorful to get her attention.
- Suggesting reading to her or playing with her.
- Offering her a favorite toy instead.
- Giving her a snack. Be careful about this one. Too much of this can be unhealthy and lead to excessive weight gain.
Distraction will only work some of the time, and parents who're trying to stop pacifier usage in a young child often have to turn to other methods, as well. None of these should be harsh. That won't solve the problem. Instead, try some other simple tricks to reduce pacifier usage in a child. The less a child uses a pacifier, the more she'll begin to see she doesn't really need it.
Other Ways to Reduce a Child's Pacifier Use
For any parents who's really determined to get her child to stop using a pacifier, distraction shouldn't be the only tool in the arsenal. It only works some of the time, and there are other ways that also work. For example:
- Don't respond to a child's questions or statements unless she removes the pacifier from her mouth and speaks clearly. Obviously, a child should never be ignored in an emergency or if something is really wrong.
- Set specific times where she can/can't have the pacifier (such as for a nap, or for a certain period of time after a specific activity).
- Set an "only at bedtime" rule for the pacifier after a child has gotten used to reduced pacifier use. Eventually, she'll be able to do without it when she's getting ready to sleep for the night, too, especially if she already does without it for naps.
Weaning a child off a pacifier won't happen in a day or even a week. Any parent is going to have to give in sometimes, such as when her child is sick or when there's been something new or traumatic happening. Children have a need to suck when they're babies, and the pacifier can help them. As they get a little older they use the pacifier primarily for comfort, and another good way to reduce pacifier use is to find something else that's comforting.
A blanket, book, or favorite toy can help a child transition away from pacifier use. The Internet offers many other tips and tricks that parents can use to get their child away from a pacifier. Be sure to check out these options carefully before using them, because they might not be right for a specific situation or child.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For answers to questions about a child's pacifier use or other developmental issues, be sure to see a doctor.
Resources for Weaning a Child From a Pacifier
10 Ways to Wean a Child From a Pacifier
Weaning a Child off of the Pacifier
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