Taking Away the Pacifier

“Do I take away the pacifier?”
There are many good reasons for your baby to use a pacifier. Your baby may need it to self sooth, especially in times of stress or major changes to their routine. A pacifier should never be used instead of your own personal touch or attention.

The American Academy of Pediatrics actually recommends pacifier use in children under the age of one for naps and bedtime to help reduce the risk of SIDS. You always be sure that baby has positive and healthy eating habits before introducing a pacifier. One of the most common fears with pacifier use to parents is the effects it may have on their child’s dental health. The first few years of use is not a risk.

Webmd states that use after the age of 2 teeth and jaw problems can correct itself but after age four problems may be long lasting and need help to correct. The important thing about pacifier use is to let the baby lead the way.

Don’t force them to use it if they don’t want to. When you do decide to wean them off go at the child’s pace. Be present in the process and don’t expect them to quit cold turkey. Go slow. Be aware of the things going on in your child’s life that raises their stress levels. They may need it at those times.

The most important thing is to remember that your support is the best influence to removing the binky.

Want to know the five binky basics? Check out the article 5 Binky Basics: What You Need to Know About Pacifiers

~Ms. Dotty
NAEYC Coordinator