POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy1 Year agoA. If your 17-month-old is consistently sucking on plastic objects, it's important to address this habit to ensure their safety. Here are some tips:
1. **Provide Safe Alternatives:** Offer safe and appropriate items for your baby to suck on, such as teethers or silicone-based toys designed for this purpose.
2. **Remove Access to Unsafe Objects:** Identify and remove plastic objects or items that may pose a choking hazard from your baby's reach.
3. **Supervision:** Always supervise your child closely, especially when they are playing or exploring their surroundings. Redirect them to safe alternatives if you notice them reaching for inappropriate items.
4. **Teething Toys:** If teething is a factor, provide teething toys that are designed to soothe gum discomfort. These toys are usually made of safe, non-toxic materials.
5. **Distract and Engage:** Keep your child engaged with age-appropriate toys and activities to divert their attention away from inappropriate objects.
6. **Positive Reinforcement:** Praise your child when they use appropriate items and avoid scolding. Positive reinforcement can help reinforce good behavior.
7. **Teach and Explain:** As your child gets older and understands more, gently explain which items are safe to put in their mouth and which are not.
8. **Childproofing:** Ensure your home is properly childproofed, including securing cabinets with childproof locks and keeping small objects out of reach.
If the behavior persists or if you have concerns, consult with your pediatrician for guidance. They can provide specific advice based on your child's development and habits.
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