Is the Thumb a Finger?

By jamie

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6. Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking is an instinct that comes naturally. It is necessary for us to have an instinct to suck because we need to do so to get the milk that we need from our mother’s breasts. When a nipple is not available, babies will usually gladly turn to sucking their thumbs instead. We are not completely sure why babies do this, but it is likely to make them feel safer as it can remind them of being close to their mother’s breasts.

Remember that while thumb sucking is harmless for babies, it is something that should be discouraged as children get older because it may cause their teeth to grow distorted.

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