Why Do Children Like to Suck Their Thumbs, and What Can Be Done About It?

When children are young, it is relatively normal for them to suck their fingers. Sometimes they are seeking a sense of security. However, when children grow older and still have the habit of sucking their fingers, it should be taken seriously. Sometimes, it may be caused by a lack of zinc, especially for children over 3 years old. Parents should take their children to have a check-up for trace elements to see if it is caused by a lack of zinc or iron. Let's take a look at why children like to suck their fingers and what to do about it.

Have your child tested for trace elements. A lack of zinc, iron, and other trace elements in the body can also lead to the habit of sucking fingers. Supplements should be taken according to the test results. Irregular supplementation can easily make children feel hungry, and they may subconsciously lick their fingers. If this is discovered, it should be corrected promptly. Children often lack a sense of security during their childhood. If adults are not around for a long time, it can have a significant impact on their psychology. Some children develop autism partly due to this reason. Of course, some children may feel afraid when they are alone and find a way to relieve it, gradually developing the habit. Psychological pressure can also lead to finger-sucking, such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Sometimes, it may be due to family reasons that cause psychological pressure on children. In this case, it is necessary to communicate with children promptly to relieve their pressure. To help children change the habit of sucking their fingers, it is important to encourage them rather than taking forceful measures.

When a child is sucking their fingers, the mother can divert their attention by giving them toys to play with, thus stopping the behavior. By maintaining this method of distraction, children will gradually forget the bad habit. Therefore, it is essential to avoid developing bad habits and pay attention to a diversified diet for balanced nutrition. Mothers can tell children that sucking their fingers is dirty, contains bacteria, and is unhygienic. Patience is key when advising children. If a child stops sucking their fingers, praise them. For 3-year-old children, sucking their fingers is normal as it is a way for them to develop their intelligence. Hands are a fun toy for babies, and some babies even pull their feet up to suck on them. This behavior is relatively normal during infancy. However, if children continue to suck their fingers frequently after 3 years of age, it becomes a bad habit that mothers should promptly correct.