Health Tip: Pacifier Practice

Control when and how often your baby sucks on a soother

(HealthDayNews) -- Sucking on a pacifier gives comfort to many babies, but once entrenched it can be a difficult habit to break, advises Omaha Boys Town Pediatrics.

It's recommended that once your baby begins to crawl, you start weaning the infant off the pacifier.

Here are suggestions to make weaning easier:

  • Don't offer a pacifier every time she cries, especially during the first six months.
  • When she gets older, comfort her with a cuddle before offering her a pacifier.
  • After the age of 6 months, only allow her to have the pacifier during naptime and bedtime. Take it out of her mouth after she has fallen asleep.
  • Provide some other type of security object for your child, such as a stuffed animal or blanket.

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