Babies and Dummies | Let's Talk NHS Lothian | Information and Top Tips (2024)

To prevent problems later:

• Give your child as much time without the dummy as possible.
• As your baby gets older, try to use the dummy for sleep times only.
• Don’t put anything on the dummy to encourage sucking.

Remember:

• Babies who use dummies have fewer chances to babble.
• Extended use of a dummy may contribute to dental and speech sound problems.
• It’s easier to wean a baby off a dummy than a toddler!

If your baby has a dummy:

• Try to use it as little as possible.
• Always take the dummy out when your baby is babbling or chatting.

If your child is using their dummy all the time, or is not giving their dummy up as soon as you would like, try these ideas:

• Wean them off – gradually decrease the times when you let your child use their dummy.
• Restrict dummy use to key times during the day, such as bedtime or when your child is ill. Be firm.
• Point out older girls and boys, who don’t use dummies, to your child. Pre-schoolers love being more grown-up!
• Encourage your child to give all their dummies away to a person who is important to them, such as a grandparent or pre-school key worker.
• Reward your child with fun activities, stickers or star charts – don’t give them sweets instead of their dummy.
• Remember your child will grow out of their reliance on their dummy.