It eased transitions to new places. It prevented crying jags at bedtime. It kept your sanity. But now, it's time to let go of the binky.
When to Say When Sucking is a natural reflex. Within an infant's first few months, the pacifier aids as a pain reliever. During sleep, it reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Pacifiers offer a calming release when babies are stressed. But even before birth, infants discover how to pacify with their own fingers.
The younger the child, the easier it is to wean off of the pacifier. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend making the big move between six months and a year.
Why Take It Away
Some children latch onto a pacifier like it's a life preserver. In some ways, it is. The paci has been part of his daily routine throughout infancy, along with bath time or reading a book before bedtime. A child forms emotional attachments as early as six months. And as the saying goes, "old habits die hard."
Other than becoming a bad habit, extended use of a pacifier may also have medical consequences according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
That binky is a germ incubator. After dropping the pacifier on the floor time and time again, the five second rule doesn't apply. Another child can easily pick up the paci and pop it into her mouth. Your child's love for sharing can lead to higher incidence of infections. Pacifiers should be cleaned frequently and replaced, especially after your child has been sick.
Suckers may have negative dental outcomes. Prolonged use, especially after two years old, can eventually lead to misaligned teeth. And watch out for that running toddler. Falls with a pacifier in the mouth can injure developing teeth.
Middle-ear problems are more likely to develop. A child that is prone to ear infections will do better without a binky.
Obstructions prevent proper speech development. A child can't practice language skills when he constantly has something in his mouth.
How to Say Farewell
If you have grown accustomed to the paci as much as your child has, you may need to find alternatives to handle the separation. Begin by talking to him. Explain that big boys and girls don't need pacifiers. By allowing him to help make the decision, he will feel more at ease about giving up his favorite object.
Pull off the Band-Aid. Your child can even help throw the pacifier away. He may ask for it once or twice. Yes there will be tears, but children are resilient. Soothe him in other ways- talk about his feelings, read a book, or sing lullabies.
Phase it out. If you prefer a more gentle transition, gradually wean your child from the pacifier throughout the day. Limit use to only bedtime. Your child will become accustomed to having it less and less.
Read books. Children love story time. Make it meaningful  by reading a book about saying goodbye. No More Pacifiers by Melanie O' Brien shares the colorful tale of eight toddlers that each part with their binkies one-by-one, counting down to zero. After reading, discuss what happens in the story.
Offer alternatives. Instead of surrendering the pacifier to your child, let him choose a favorite plush toy or blanket at bedtime. During the day, keep him busy with activities to keep his mind off of the binky.
Count down the days. Set a time schedule to put away the binky forever. Each day, cross it off on a calendar. Build up the excitement by exclaiming "four more days until you're a big boy!" When the day comes, celebrate the milestone and tell him how proud you are of him.
Bring in reinforcements. Some parents have found that the pacifier fairy, just like the tooth fairy, helps ease the pain of separation. Tell the story of how the fairy takes the older boys' and girls' pacifiers and gives them to babies who need them. The fairy then leaves a toy in exchange for the pacifier. Ask your child if he is ready for the pacifier fairy to come.
Whether you follow one method or combine a few, use positive encouragement for a smoother transition. Praise your child for being such a big boy or girl. Comfort him with extra hugs and kisses. Spend a few additional minutes at bedtime rocking or reading a book together. Your affection is the best distraction.
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