I know my opinion may not be the most popular but I support in a conscious use of a pacifier. Not all babies take a pacifier from the very beginning, but a pacifier can be a lifesaver for parents and babies alike. It can provide comfort and help soothe a fussy baby, especially during the nighttime hours. However, not all babies take to a pacifier right away, and some may need a little encouragement and patience to get used to it. In this article, we’ll discuss how to teach a baby how to take a pacifier.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pacifier

The first step in teaching a baby how to take a pacifier is to choose the right one. Look for a pacifier that is the right size and shape for your baby’s mouth, and make sure it’s made of safe, non-toxic materials. Additionally, consider purchasing a pacifier with a shield that’s wide enough to prevent it from becoming lodged in your baby’s mouth.
Step 2: Introduce the Pacifier Gradually

Once you have the right pacifier, the next step is to introduce it gradually to your baby. Start by allowing your baby to play with it and get used to the sensation. You can also put a drop of breast milk or formula on the pacifier to encourage your baby to take it.
Step 3: Offer the Pacifier at Relaxed Times

When introducing a pacifier, it’s important to offer it at relaxed times when your baby is not upset or hungry. This will help them associate the pacifier with comfort and relaxation, rather than discomfort or hunger.
Step 4: Be Patient and Consistent

Babies are individuals, and some may take to a pacifier more quickly than others. Be patient and persistent in your efforts to get your baby to take a pacifier. If your baby refuses the pacifier, don’t force it, and try again later.
Step 5: In and out (for low muscle tone)

Some babies are born with a lower muscle tone. For them it’s much harder to take a pacifier. They also may have hard time sucking too. In order for a baby to develop a good suction we may need to help them by inserting the pacifier slowly, wait a moment for the suction to form and remove it slowly. Sometimes we may need to jiggle it a bit in the baby’s mouth for the reflex to arise and start working. By doing so several times as an exercise we may help to increase the baby’s suction and help them to be able to take the pacifier.

Pacifier can be used from the very beginning when the baby is born. It is also important to be aware and mindful about the baby’s abilities. A baby cannot take a pacifier on their own and put it in its mouth before the motor ability is acquired. Around 4-5 mounts old a baby can voluntary hold onto objects (at this point it is still very early for them to be able to put it in their mouth). Later on hand-eye contact starts to form and the ability to bring the hand to the mid-line. When you are able to observe this motion is complete (hand voluntary takes an object into mouth) you can start to teach your baby to do this on their own.

As a Pediatric sleep consultant I’d like to add some important information. Be careful and mindful when you give a pacifier for your baby when they go to sleep.

It is ok to give a baby a pacifier before bedtime, just make sure it doesn’t become a conditional factor so your baby gets dependent on it to fall asleep. If your baby spits up the pacifier while they are asleep, do not reinsert it. Once you realize the pacifier became a dependency factor, Stop associating the pacifier with bedtime.

In conclusion, teaching a baby how to take a pacifier is a process that requires patience and consistency. By following these steps, you can help your little one get used to the pacifier and enjoy the comfort and benefits it provides.

I hope this article was useful and informative for you. If you have questions or comment I’d love to hear you out

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