The soother, for how long?

How to get your baby to give up using a soother? Here are some simple rules that can make the separation from their beloved soother less traumatic.

To make the moment when you get rid of the soother easier, it is best not to use it too much. By this we mean putting it in their mouth even when they haven't asked for it, or to keep them quiet whenever they cry. The soother should only be used when necessary and it should be removed as soon as the child falls asleep to ensure that they are not using it for too long and to stop them waking up every time it falls out of their mouth.

A good time to reduce or abolish the use of the soother is when the baby starts crawling and taking their first steps. At this time their interest in new activities and exploring can make it easier to give up their sucking habit. What is more, you should make sure that your little one doesn't get too attached to a single type of soother, and do not leave it hanging from their neck all day long as they toddle around the house on two feet or on all fours.

- If they have always been given the soother only when they go to bed, it will be easy to get rid of it from the age of two.

- To help your child give up their soother, you must choose a time when they are happy.

- They should be given a good reason for giving it up: "We'll give it to Santa Claus".

- It is not a good idea to hide the soother at home because you might be tempted to give in and give it back.

- You must comfort your child, praising them for being so grown up. This will make them feel proud of agreeing to give up something so important and taking a step toward becoming part of a grown-up world.

- It is important to take it step by step: first, take it away during the afternoon, during naps, etc.

- At night, give them a soft toy or something else that they will accept instead of the soother.

- We must never resort to punishments or humiliation. Getting rid of the soother must be seen as an achievement rather than a punishment.

- We must not be in too much of a hurry, as it's important for the little one to do it in their own time.