As we celebrate Children’s Dental Health month, I wanted to give you some tips on how to get rid of the pacifier. We just went through this with Mr. B who is 2 years old. I had intended to get rid of the “binky” long ago as it can cause problems with developing teeth. With our busy schedules and the boys poor sleep habits, the pacifier was present for longer than intended.
The first step is to limit the amount of time your child can use his or her pacifier. We came up with a rule, the pacifier was not to leave the bed. Mr. B could only use his pacifier if he was trying to go to sleep. If your child uses the pacifier throughout the day, slowly cut back on the amount of time they can use it. Specify a location that the pacifier is allowed to be used.
Start talking to your child about getting rid of the pacifier. We often talked to Mr. B about how he was no longer a baby. Although he never completely understood why we were limiting the pacifier use, I do think the consistent reminders eased the transition.
After a couple of weeks of limited use, take the pacifier away completely. Believe me, this is a tough step- but do not turn back. With both of my boys, they cried the first night we took the pacifier away. They asked for it and cried for what seemed like forever. It was heartbreaking and I cried too. If you can get past that first night, it is all down hill from there.
The key is to not give in. The succeeding nights, my boys whined for the pacifier but for less time. Each night got easier. Mr. B is on his 10th night without a pacifier and he still asks occasionally. He no longer cries and is okay with the answer “binky is all gone”.
Once you have embarked on the task of getting rid of the pacifier, search your home and car for extra pacifiers. Make sure to throw them all away.
In my opinion, it is much easier to get rid of a pacifier compared to quitting thumb sucking. What is your experience with tossing the pacifier?
Photo credit Rolf.
Latest posts by Renae Chiovaro (see all)
- Last Minute Batgirl Costume - October 22, 2016
- Agnes & Dora: Comfortable & Affordable Clothing - September 19, 2016
- Life is a Highway - September 17, 2016
We just did it this same way with our 2-year old. We also got 4 or 5 bye-bye paci books out of the library and read those mostly before giving it up, because afterwards it was an unnecessary reminder. With my other son we mailed the pacis to a baby who needed it, and it was no easier. All he did was beg to meet the baby so he could get it back. Honestly the prep followed by cold turkey worked better. And after a few days it was never mentioned again!
Thanks for sharing Theresa! I thought about giving the pacis to a friend who just had a baby. When I told Mr. B this idea- he insisted that was not a good idea. I knew that cold turkey was going to be the only way. It is tough on the heart of the momma, but luckily they get over it quick!
ok we will try because my daghter who is 8 still has problems getting rid of her binkie