How to Wean a Child Off the Pacifier
- It’s recommended to wean a child off the pacifier after 2 years of age, but no later than 4 years. The longer a child uses a pacifier, the later their speech develops, their vocabulary decreases, and jaw deformities can occur (which may require braces in the future). Because saliva is constantly produced, children often suffer from recurring upper respiratory infections and may develop nighttime coughing.
- By age 2, a child can understand what you say. Explain to them that they’ve grown up, that older kids don’t use pacifiers, and that pacifiers often get dirty (repeat if necessary). Redirect their attention to something else, like their favorite food. Show happiness when you don’t see the pacifier in their mouth. As a reward, you can take them outside or to their favorite place. Chew toys can also be helpful.
- Negative methods are not acceptable! Do not tear, throw away, smear the pacifier, scold, mock, humiliate, or laugh at the child because of the pacifier.
26 December 2021
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