Getting rid of the dummy

[caption id="attachment_2387" align="alignleft" width="150"] baby sleeping with dummy[/caption]

 

So many parents struggle with how to get rid of their baby’s dummy. It seems each week I am asked this question.

 

As we have discussed, using a dummy to help soothe your baby can be helpful- when your baby is little. As with all well intentioned things or practices, sometimes the time that they are helpful or needed, comes to pass without our really noticing it and Hey presto , we have a problem where the dummy becomes the problem rather than the help.

 

Once this time comes and parents realise the dummy is no longer helpful but in fact the problem, it is really hard to change just because the baby is so dependent on using it. Remember anything we  do with our babies repeatedly becomes an ingrained habit for babies, toddlers and children.

 

It is a useful way to learn and it also helps give little ones that sense of security because they know what to expect.

 

When we want to change what they know- that becomes a harder task.  Any change to any habit is usually met with resistance- particularly young babies just because they cannot put into words what they may thinking or feeling.

 

Most babies will scream when any changes are made to habits and expectations that are really ingrained. Most parents, understandably, avoid this situation and inadvertently make any unhelpful habits even stronger. Remember a dummy is to soothe so when you are changing this we need to show your baby other ways to soothe and a firm calm cuddle is one of the best ways.

 

There are certainly  some techniques and principles to assist the transition of stopping the use of a dummy.  Clear communication, plenty of emotional support, planning and alternatives should be thought out before just stopping. This should help to ease the transition to life without  the dummy.

 

With careful planning and a concerted follow through getting rid of your baby’s dummy can be achieved with relative ease.