Jobs & Education0 min ago
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For more on marking an answer as the "Best Answer", please visit our FAQ.You have the key to it "when he isn't thinking about it" - your number one tactic with a 3yr old is distraction - keep him thinking, talking and doing and he'll be too busy to ask.
Number two tactic is ignoring - tell him you will not discuss the dummy... and don't. Change the subject or walk away if he mentions it.
Number three tactic - if you can't ignore, be positive - never say "no" - some kids believe they must react badly to this word! Tell him "yes you can have your dummy ... at bedtime / naptime..." (if that is what you are happy with).
Number four tactic - reward & celebrate any success together. "Right... as a treat we're going out to the park this afternoon because you didn't once ask for your dummy". (Don't become negative and give punishments if he does ask - go back to tactic nos 1&2 !!)
Remember that being a parent is all about making judgements about what is right for your child... not giving them what they think they want. That way they will grow up secure in the belief that their parents are in control, even if most of the time we know we aren't !!
I saw on a TV programme that someone was having the same problem as you.
They were advised to tie the dummy to a helium balloon as let it go, explaining to the child that he is now a big boy and the dummy was now going on a special journey. If the child asked about it, they could have a little story as to how far it has travelled.
Just a thought. Good luck!
It was 21 years ago mind you ..lol
I liked the balloon idea ..thats just been sujested .
My daughter is 3 and a half and we waited until after a long car ride and holiday and then we told her that it will be going into the bin and she gave up with suprisingly little fight. I wonder if parents (us included) are the ones that are loath to give it up and it becomes a bit of security when they are kicking off.
I reckon that if you are truely ready to give it up as a parent then you will also be surprised at how easy it will be for them - as long as you are consistent and stick to your guns.
Don't spend too much time worrying - it will soon seem like a distant memory!
All the best