Getting your toddler to ditch their dummy can be a tough task. Kids don’t like change, and they can be quite attached to their soothers. After all, they are pretty soothing for little ones.
However, there are a few tips and tricks that will make the transition that bit easier on you and your tot…
Make it gradual
This idea is based on the ‘softly, softly’ approach where you make the change gradual. Put a bowl beside your child’s bed and teach them to pop their soother in the bowl as soon as they get out of bed. This will help your child to associate the soother with night-time only.
Enlist the ‘dummy fairy’s’ help
Like with many things in life, sometimes it’s easier to just blame someone else. That someone can be the ‘dummy fairy.’ But put a positive spin on it. Say something like ‘the fairy must have noticed what a big, grown-up boy/girl you’ve become.
Give them a gift
Once the soother has gone by-by, praise your child for dealing so well and give them a gift to celebrate.
It doesn’t have to be anything big or extravagant, but be sure it’s something they’ll like. That way, they won’t feel hard done by.
Be devious
Sometimes you have to break the rules a little. One idea is to snip a small hole in the tip of the soother. Then when your child sucks on it, it won’t work and you can just say ‘it’s broken.’ A young toddler likely won’t think to ask about getting a new one.
Be patient
While tricks undoubtedly help with the transition, bear in mind that your child will probably kick up a fuss at first.
Expect the first day or two to be tough and be prepared to comfort your tot more than usual. Try rubbing their back or tummy when they start to fuss.
Bring out the books
There are lots of books out there aiming to help kids adjust to their new soother-free life. Good ones include Bye Bye Binky by Brigette Weninger and Bea Gives up her Pacifier by Jenny Album.
Be consistent
By far the most important thing is to not give up, no matter how much your toddler digs their heels in. If you send them mixed messages, you’ll just make it harder for yourself in the long run.
Reward, reward, reward
If your child is really not coping well with the dummy ban, you might need to bring out a reward chart.
For instance, give them a sticker every time they wake up in the morning without crying at bedtime. With young kids, it’s all about positive reinforcement.
