Are you concerned about your child’s teeth because of the dummy they are using? Are you sick and tired of having to make sure the dummy goes everywhere with you? Let’s face it dummies are not the most hygienic things either. Are you at a loss to know how to finally ditch the dummy?
Try making ditching the dummy FUN, EASY, MAGICAL & MEMORABLE, both for you and for your child. Usually, when a child is coerced into doing something they don't want to do, they are more likely to resist. If your child is gently guided by you to make a decision to ditch the dummy them-self, they might be more inclined to not only see the process through, but enjoy it also. All you have to do is use your imagination.
Here are just a few ideas that have worked for parents who were at their wits end trying to stop their child’s habit. Maybe one of these could work for you.
1. Up, Up, and Away tied to a Big Balloon:
This is an adorable idea I learned from a parent and involves a `ceremonial farewell to the dummy’. When your child is ready to say goodbye to the dummy, (maybe because they are not a baby anymore), plan a time and place when the ceremony can take place.
Choose your child’s favourite colour for the balloon.
Tie the last dummy to a balloon (dental floss is really strong and good to use for this)
If your child has more than one dummy then make sure you have enough balloons ready (one dummy per balloon).
Preferably conduct the ceremony on a slightly breezy day so the balloon will carry the dummy a long distance from the release spot.
The parent I spoke to about this ceremony idea said for some time afterwards, her child still looks up to the sky and says his dummy is up there.
2. Snip it
When your child is not around, snip the end of the dummy. This will make the dummy seem as though it’s “broken”. The idea is to let you child know, that it was their last dummy and `oh dear’ it is broken. So now there is no more dummy and they will have do without now!
3. Negotiation
Some people consider this bribery. J There are many different ways to negotiate ditching the dummy. Treats and toys always work well but make sure if you are offering treats that they are healthy options. That means no junk food or drinks! Perhaps stickers or colour-in pencils would be a better option.
4. Dummy Farewell Party
Another idea is to have a `no-more-dummy’ party, where family and close friends can visit and celebrate the end of the dummy. This would tie in nicely with number one suggestion of tying the dummy to a balloon. Everyone could cheer and clap when the balloon is released.
Hope these ideas help. Good luck with ditching the dummy!
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