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When and how does one wean a toddler of his/her pacifier? Many infants and toddlers get hooked on their pacifier because it offers comfort during times of stress such as separation from their parents at bedtime. Teaching children to cope with these stresses is part of good parenting. The process is often delayed in order to avoid the loss (crying, whining etc) that will inevitably ensue but must be dealt with proactively as part of "growing up" for both the parents and their child. Three years of age is a good time to initiate the weaning from a bedtime pacifier in order to avoid the later development of problems with dentition and because most 3 year olds can cope with this process at this time. I find that a modified "cold turkey" approach works best. It is a 'modified' approach because the parent needs the child's co-operation, involvement and assistance in preparation for the big event. The child is told a short while ahead of his third birthday and reminded a few times that when he reaches three he, like all other three year olds, he will big enough and old enough not to require the pacifier any longer and that a "goodbye" ceremony with a few treats and streamers will be conducted. When the time comes, ideally the child himself tosses the pacifier out and says his good-byes, thereby colluding in the separation process and becoming part of and responsible for the difficult deed. An important lesson for all will have been learned and achieved.
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