Pacifier

Pacifier use is very controversial among professionals. Conflicting professional advice may confuse many parents, many of whom depend on pacifiers to help calm or help their baby sleep. While there are many benefits to pacifier use, there are certainly risks to overuse or not weaning in a timely manner. Pacifiers are not bad, but there is a t ime and a place for pacifier use.

When Pacifiers are Useful

 To calm a newborn

 Pacifier sucking can organize babies

 Used in feeding therapy for suck training

 Can reduce reflux symptoms in infants

Inappropriate or Over Use of Pacifier

Can interfere with hunger/satiety cues  Lengthy use can inhibit the development of tongue and jaw movements for feeding and speech development

When to Wean

The best time to wean off a pacifier is between 6-12 months of age. The sooner the easier. Giving up the pacifier doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Just make sure you have a plan and follow through with it. Not following through can make weaning the pacifier significantly more difficult for you and your child. Most parents report that weaning off the pacifier was easier than they thought and that they had more anxiety about the process than their child did.

Problems/Complications

 Feeding problems

 Speech problems

 Ear Infections

 Poor teeth alignment

Ways to Eliminate the Pacifier There is no right or wrong. Find what works for you and your child.

 Gradually reduce pacifier opportunities during “less stressed” situations and progressively towards “more stressed” situations

 Use only in the crib or only at night

 Replace pacifier with a “lovie” (blanket or stuffed animal, etc.)

 Keep your child’s hands busy so he is less likely to use a pacifier or thumb

 Cut the top of the pacifier off so it becomes “broken” and less appealing

 Give it away to a newborn, or leave it out for the Pacifier Fairy to take

 Trade the pacifier for a prize or privilege

 Cold turkey

You can answer these questions in the comments. We will help you.

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