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The PACIFIER!

1. Using a pacifier for too long can hinder a child’s development
2. Children tend to have the most need for extra or non-nutritive sucking (not during feeding) between the ages 2-4 months of age.
3. PROS & CONS to pacifier use include:
   • PROS:
     • used as a sleep aid
     • to comfort your child in stressful situations
     • to distinguish between hungry vs. fussy baby
     • to help with acid reflux
     • for infants who are tube-fed
   • CONS:
     • breast-feeding difficulties
     • dental problems
     • increased middle ear infections
     • speech problems
     • swallowing difficulties
     • dependency
     • negative social impacts
4. How to eliminate pacifier use:
   • keep pacifier out of sight
   • be consistent
   • designate certain times of the day for pacifier use
   • slowly reduce the amount of time allowed for pacifier
   • finding other ways the child can comfort themselves
   • encouraging good dental care
   • give praise
   • BE PATIENT

IF YOUR CHILD IS OVER THE AGE OF 1  START ELIMINATING NOW! 🙂