There will probably always be supporters and opponents of the soother. But what are the actual pros and cons? When can you start using it? And most importantly: how does your child get rid of it later?
The pros and cons of a soother
The biggest advantage of a soother for your child is, of course, its calming effect. Restless babies often calm down when they have something to suck on. As a mom, you can nurse your baby at the breast, or as a dad, you can let your baby suck on your finger, but that’s not always practical. The soother to the rescue!
Many parents are not a fan of soothers anyway. They are often afraid that their baby will become too dependent on it. This sometimes happens, but don't worry: further on in this article, you will find some tips to banish the soother.
The biggest disadvantage is potential nipple-soother confusion. Your baby gets confused by the constant switch between mummy's breast and the soother. They don't feel quite the same, so your baby may suddenly refuse the breast or drink less smoothly at the breast.
When to start and stop using a soother?
Definitely wait until after your child's first week of life to offer it a soother. If you want to breastfeed your baby, wait until that runs smoothly. This usually takes about three to four weeks anyway.
Pediatricians, speech therapists and dentists recommend weaning your child off a pacifier around the age of 3. But if it can be done earlier, so much the better.
A soother provides comfort for both you and your baby, but you should use it with care. Do what feels best for you, and keep an eye on how your child responds to it, especially if you're breastfeeding.
Phasing out soother use
Doctors recommend stopping soother use by your child's third birthday. But of course, that’s easier said than done. These three tips can help your child gradually let go of the pacifier—sooner or later.
1. Differentiate between day and night
Many children use their soother both during the day and at night. Start by telling your child that the soother is only for nighttime. A small but important first step.
2. Let your child ask for the soother
If there’s no soother within easy reach, your child won’t automatically grab it. They will have to ask for it, which creates a small barrier. Over time, this can lead to them using it less and eventually giving it up.
3. Let your child give the soother away
If the first two steps don’t work, this method often does. Encourage your child to give their pacifier to a doll, a stuffed animal, the tooth fairy, or even Santa. You can also offer a small gift in return. This creates a clear ending for your child while giving them something positive in exchange!
What is the ideal soother?
If you decide to give your child a soother, make sure to choose the right one. Keep these factors in mind:
- Size: switch to a larger one in time, as a baby's head grows at lightning speed.
- Shape: are you breastfeeding? Is your child teething? Choose a soother shape that suits their needs.
- Material: make sure the soother feels comfortable to avoid irritation (literally and figuratively).
