Soothers can be parents and a child’s best friend! It provides comfort and security when a baby is in a new environment and they feel overwhelmed, it helps to prolong the times in between feeds, and studies show that the use of a soother can help prevent SIDS.
- When your child throws it out of the cot a hundred times during the night, and you find yourself putting it in more than it stays in!
- If you find that your child is prone to ear infections.
- Dentists recommend that soother usage stops before a child’s permanent teeth begin to come through.
Cold Turkey MethodOut of sight, out of mind!
Or even better, if they have been binned, then parent has no other option then to tough it out and remain consistent.
I found the first day was the hardest. By the third day, children normally adjust quite well.
Gradual Transition
If you are worried that your child is overly attached, this may work better for your family. Consistency is also key here.
Begin by eliminating soothers during awake periods. Only allowing soothers to be used at nap time and bedtime.
Then after a few days, make a conscious effort NOT to offer the soother at nap time. Sometimes we don’t even realise we are doing it as it becomes part of the routine.
When you feel it is ready to go, then remove at bedtime.
Yes, it is easier said than done! (Most things parenting are!) BUT when you do decide to make the step to do this and keep persevere, you will find baby adapts to this new way of dummy-less life pretty quickly!
The first three days are always the hardest. Keep that in mind and break through that 3rd day barrier and be soother-free on the other side!
Good luck Mama!
