691094_thumb_sucker.jpgThe child sucks his or her thumb when they are very nervous, agitated or ill. Many parents are concerned about this as this is the habit which when formed in the childhood remains until a long time.

This is not a very serious but when it continues when the child is about to have his or her permanent teeth then it becomes serious as the teeth are distorted and the braces are the only solution.

If the child is sucking his or her thumb in a very aggressive manner then it is of concern to the parent. The thumb sucking is usually is an automatic gesture and most of the times the kid is also not aware about the sucking motion. Punishing a child over thumb sucking is not helpful as the child is sucking the thumb to gain comfort from it. You can give them a soft blanket or some toys that will comfort them and stop that thumb sucking.

Try to research a bit and find out when and why they start sucking the thumb. Try to find out way to distract him or her from sucking the thumb by giving them something to play with. The pediatric doctor can help you in giving tips for helping the child stop thumb sucking.