Getting a 4 Year Old to Stop Sucking Thumb

You could offer him real knowledge of bacteria and the possibilities of what could happen to his teeth. Maybe show him a couple of tame examples from a book or the internet. Find a kids book that talks about it. Plus, have him pick out a replacement soother- stuffed animal, blanket or a toy that he can chew that won't hurt him. Maybe even soft music to play in his room at night. A fun lamp that has a night light. Ask him what would help? "If you could have something that would remind you that you're big enough not to suck your thumb or You will always be mama's baby...I'm not sure but you will know your child." Good luck and best wishes.

THey have plastic thumb guards that have wrist bands so the child can't take them off and they are then too big to suck on comfortably.

I don't know if this crosses any lines, but Tabasco sauce might help. You don't want him getting it in his eye though, when he is sleeping. Other food sources might help too, like lemon juice or something that won't burn his eye, or stink, but will give his tongue a start when he pops his thumb in his mouth while sleeping. Then, he can pull it out for his reward.

My baby is only 2 1/2 months but I know at my walmart they have a nail polish in the pharmacy that is like hot nail ploish to help with thumb sucking. Hope that helps.