how to stop my to keep her hands in her mouth

Question

Accepted Answer

It's common for young children, including one-year-olds, to explore their environment and self-soothe by putting their hands in their mouths. However, if you want to discourage this behavior, here are some strategies you can try:

1. Distract and Redirect

Engage in Play: Offer engaging toys or activities to keep her hands busy. Consider toys that encourage fine motor skills, like stacking blocks or shape sorters.

Alternative Objects: Provide teething toys or other safe items that she can chew on instead of her hands.

2. Positive Reinforcement

Praise When Not Doing It: When you notice her not putting her hands in her mouth, praise her or give her attention. Positive reinforcement can encourage her to continue that behavior.

Reward System: If she's able to keep her hands out of her mouth for a period, offer a small reward like a sticker or extra playtime.

3. Establish a Routine

Structured Activities: Create a routine that includes various activities throughout the day to keep her occupied, reducing the opportunity for her to put her hands in her mouth.

Scheduled Playtime: Plan interactive playtime with you or other children, which can keep her engaged and distracted.

4. Maintain Clean Hands

Regular Hand Washing: Ensure her hands are clean to reduce the risk of germs. If she puts her hands in her mouth, it may lead to illness, and she may be less inclined to do so if she realizes it’s not comfortable.

Use of Teething Gels: If she's teething, consider using teething gels (as recommended by your pediatrician) that might provide comfort without needing to suck on her hands.

5. Gentle Reminders

Verbal Cues: Use gentle verbal reminders, such as saying “hands down” or “let’s play with this toy” whenever you see her starting to put her hands in her mouth.

Calm Correction: If she does put her hands in her mouth, calmly redirect her attention to another activity or toy.

6. Understand the Reason

Assess Needs: Determine if she is teething, bored, tired, or seeking comfort. Addressing the underlying cause can help reduce the behavior.

Comfort and Security: Sometimes, children suck their hands for comfort. Ensure she feels secure and comforted in her environment.

7. Consult a Pediatrician

If the behavior persists or you’re concerned about its impact on her health or development, consult your pediatrician for advice and support.

Conclusion

With patience and consistency, you can help your one-year-old girl break the habit of putting her hands in her mouth. Focus on distraction, positive reinforcement, and understanding her needs, and she’ll likely move on to other forms of exploration.