Hello. My 10 year old still sucks her thumb. We've tried everything. How can we stop this habit?

It’s a common practice amongst new-born babies and toddlers as it acts as a pacifier but, if not addressed, it can stay on until later ages and create multiple problems.

We tend to look at it as a physical problem; however, it’s more of a psychological one.

You should try and understand your child’s emotional triggers. When is she practising the habit? Is she anxious at that time or hungry? Try to address her mental issues.

Take her to the dentist and let the doctor explain to her the repercussions and dental issues down the road, etc.

Make it a conversation, not a complaint or a nagging session as that will further lower her confidence. Children tend to adversely react to constant reminders.

Make it fun, like a game or a challenge to control the habit. Reward good behaviour to encourage her.