Thumbs, advantages, disadvantages - things to consider
Most newborn babies will naturally suck their thumbs and/or fingers, particularly when they are tired or unsettled. This 'sucking for comfort', is very different from the developmental stage that most babies go through at about 3 to 4 months when 'everything goes into their mouth'. Babies go through this expected phase (whether they suck their thumb or a dummy - or neither), as part of learning about their mouth and contributing to later speech development. As the baby grows older (about 5 to 6 months) they start to deliberately place objects in their mouth (such as toys and rattles), as part of their 'hand-eye' co-ordination skills. You can read more in
growth and development.
Older children who suck their fingers or thumbs may develop temporary lumps (like calluses) on their knuckles or fingers, where their gums and teeth frequently rub. This is normal and will not be permanent.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Things to consider
Advantages of sucking a thumb can include:
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Fulfilling a baby's need and desire to suck, to calm and soothe themselves. |
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The continuation of something they have been doing since inside the womb, coming 'naturally' to them. |
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A baby can regulate how often and how long they choose to suck their thumb. |
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A thumb is softer, compared to silicone or rubber dummies. |
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Babies can usually find their own thumbs throughout the night when they enter each wakeful phase during their sleep cycle (and will not wake you to 'put it in'). |
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A thumb is portable and always available. You will never lose it. |
Disadvantages of sucking a thumb can include: