Dummies (often called pacifiers or soothers) can be a key source of comfort for babies in between feeds. Lots of parents use them to settle their baby when they're upset, and soothers can also help settle a baby if they're colicky or have trapped wind.
But as they grow, there will come a time when you'll want to move your child away from their dummy before they become too reliant on the reassurance it gives. Many parents find moving on from using a dummy stressful at first, and it can be hard to know the best approach to take.
Don't worry. Babies and toddlers usually adjust quickly to not using their dummy. Remember, it’s just another developmental milestone for them to reach and cross. Read on for our top tips and techniques to make the weaning process a little smoother.
Why do you need to get rid of the dummy?
Babies who continue to use a dummy and depend on it for comfort for too long into toddlerhood can experience issues with the growth of their teeth and their speech development. Helping them to say goodbye to their dummy will support the development of their language skills and let them express more of their ever-growing personality.
When to get rid of the dummy
Babies usually start practicing their first few words around their first birthday. If you want to start early, it's a good idea to begin weaning them off their beloved dummy at around six months old by reducing the amount of time they have it little by little.
The NHS recommends that parents stop giving dummies to their babies between six and 12 months of age. This will help lower the possibility of longer-term problems that are sometimes associated with dummies, including ear infections and misalignment of teeth.
If your baby continues to use their dummy beyond the age of one, the chances are that they will have formed a strong bond with it. It can be a good idea to let them know that they can't have their dummy forever. Talk to them about the time when they'll eventually say goodbye to it to help them prepare.
Prolonged soother use after the age of 24 months may interfere with dental development. We recommend stopping soother use entirely when your child is older than 36 months.
You know your child best, so trust your parenting instincts and don't put pressure on them or yourself – every journey is unique.
Ditching the dummy: Our top 10 tips
These tips and tricks may help your child make the move to a dummy-free life.
1. Use distractions and alternatives
2. Set a limit
You can try limiting dummy use to bedtime, nap times, and stressful situations (like a medical appointment).
3. Give them rewards
As they get older, you can try to introduce a reward chart and give them a sticker for not using their dummy. Once their chart is full, offer them an extra special treat!
4. Introduce ‘The Dummy Fairy’
Toddlers love magical stories, so talking to them about The Dummy Fairy and how they’re going to come and give their dummy to the baby fairies will make them feel excited about the coming transition.
5. Go seasonal
If the timing is right, you could hang their dummy on the Christmas tree for Santa to take back to the North Pole, or leave it out for the Easter bunny to swap for a seasonal sweet treat.
6. Encourage them to communicate and self-settle
When you're trying to move away from the dummy, it's a good idea to consider why they're crying before instantly rushing to give them their soother. If you can teach them to communicate their needs and tune in to their emotions, they'll be more likely to self-soothe without reaching for their dummy.
7. Get the timing right
Babies build a strong bond with their dummies and use them to manage stress and self-soothe if they're upset. For this reason, it's best to avoid taking their dummy away from them during a time of change or when their routine is unsettled, for example, if you're moving house, expecting another baby, transitioning from cot to bed, or if they're feeling unwell.
8. Out of sight, out of mind
Keep their dummy hidden and out of reach to help avoid temptation.
9. Read bedtime stories about saying bye-bye to the dummy
There are tons of children's books out there that are designed to support babies as they give up their dummies.
10. Stay strong (you’ve got this!)
Remember that the process of moving on from their dummy can be difficult and stressful for babies and parents. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself (or them) and be patient – you'll get there in the end.
