Letting go of the dummy can feel like a massive milestone for both toddlers and parents. If you're ready to move on, dummy weaning: 6 ways to get your toddler to stop using a dummy might be exactly the help you need. From gentle encouragement to fun rituals, there are ways to make the transition smoother (and tear-free). It doesn’t happen overnight, but with a bit of patience and creativity, it’s absolutely doable.
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It’s important to note that most children will give up the dummy when they’re ready to – and you’re unlikely to come across a high school kid who hasn’t reached that stage yet. But, if you’ve decided that it’s time to wean your toddler off a dummy, here are a few strategies you can try to make sure they stop using a dummy for good while making the transition easier for them… and you!
Go cold turkey
This is the ‘tough love’ approach that some parents swear by while others find it cruel. You can simply tell your child they’re no longer allowed a dummy and that you’ve taken it away, or tell them you’ve ‘lost it’. The key here is consistency: if the dummy has been taken away, don’t cave when your toddler starts to whine or cry. You may be in for a tough couple of days but it will be worth it in the end.
Wean off slowly
If you’re not comfortable forcing your little one to go cold turkey, you can take a slower approach. Start eliminating the dummy from daytime naps, offering it only at night. Only once your child is completely comfortable with this should you consider doing the same with nighttime access to their dummy.
Be sneaky
A lot of kids will spit their dummy out after they’ve fallen asleep so you could sneak into their bedroom and remove the dummy from their bed or cot. Yes, they may get a little distraught and will look for it when they wake up in the middle of the night but they will have to tough it out (warning parents: you’ll have to tough it out too!). Some parents believe this is a kinder approach to getting rid of the dummy as your toddler likely won’t ‘blame’ you for it going missing.
Give it away
There are two tactics you can try here. If your child knows a young baby ask if they’d be willing to ‘give’ their dummy to the new baby, explaining that they’re older now and dummies are better suited to younger children. You can also try asking your child to ‘trade’ the dummy for something else they want, like a new toy.
Destroy it in stages
Disclaimer: safety experts often advise not to give a child a dummy that has been damaged in any way, but this remains a very popular – and often effective – way to wean a child off a dummy. If you want to try this method, you can consider poking a few holes in the teat or cutting a small section off it, progressing to bigger holes and cutting off more of the teat.
Alter the taste
A lot of parents apply bitter-tasting nail varnish to their child’s nails to encourage them to stop biting their nails and you can try something similar to wean your child off the dummy. Dip it in pure lemon juice or white vinegar – the hope is that the child will begin to associate the unpleasant taste with the dummy and will choose to give the dummy up themselves.
ALSO READ: Will using a dummy damage my child’s teeth? Advice from a paediatrician
FAQs: Toddler-Friendly Tips for Dummy Weaning
When is the best time to start weaning my toddler off the dummy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but many parents aim to begin weaning between 12 and 36 months. It’s best to choose a time when your toddler isn’t facing other major changes like potty training or starting nursery.
Why should I consider weaning my toddler off the dummy?
Long-term dummy use can affect speech development, dental alignment, and sleep habits. Weaning helps support healthy communication and oral development.
How can I begin the weaning process gently?
Start by limiting dummy use to naps and bedtime only. Gradually reduce its availability during the day and introduce comfort alternatives like soft toys or cuddles.
What are some toddler-friendly ways to say goodbye to the dummy?
Use creative approaches like the “Dummy Fairy” who takes the dummy away and leaves a small gift, or have a goodbye ceremony where your child chooses to give it up.
Should I go cold turkey or gradually?
It depends on your child. Gradual weaning works well for some toddlers, while others respond better to going cold turkey with lots of emotional support and distraction.
What can I offer instead of the dummy for comfort?
Try soft toys, blankets, calming music, bedtime stories, or extra cuddles—these can help replace the sense of security your toddler gets from the dummy.
How do I handle tantrums or resistance?
Stay calm, consistent, and reassuring. Acknowledge their feelings and offer comfort, but gently remind them the dummy is no longer needed.
Can dummy weaning affect sleep?
It might, especially if your toddler uses the dummy to fall asleep. Expect a few rough nights and try replacing the bedtime routine with new comfort habits.
How long does it usually take to wean a toddler off the dummy?
It varies. Some toddlers adjust in a few days, while others may take a couple of weeks. Patience and consistency are key.
Should I involve my toddler in the process?
Yes! Toddlers often respond well when given some control. Let them choose a new comfort item or help decide when to say goodbye to the dummy.
Is dummy use harmful if weaning doesn’t happen by age 3?
Occasional use after age 3 isn’t uncommon, but prolonged use may increase the risk of dental or speech issues. It’s worth discussing with your GP or dentist.
What if my toddler finds another object to suck on?
This can be part of self-soothing. Monitor the behaviour but try to guide your toddler toward other comfort strategies if it becomes excessive or prolonged.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general parenting support and does not replace professional medical or developmental advice. If you have concerns about your child’s dummy use or speech development, please consult a GP, paediatrician, or speech therapist.
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