The pacifiers are a popular accessory for many babies, newborns and infants. They have a soothing effect as sucking calms and reassures the baby.
By the way, what is the sucking reflex that all babies develop?
CONTENTS :
- Where does the sucking reflex come from?
- What type of Pacifier for my baby?
- Introducing a Pacifier to make weaning easier for your child
- Reduce the risk of SIDS with a Pacifier for your baby
- 5 tips to get the most out of your Pacifier
- In a nutshell
Where does the sucking reflex come from?
The sucking reflex doesn't actually develop. It's present as early as the 14th week of gestation. Ultrasound images show baby sucking his thumb or umbilical cord. It's an innate, automatic reflex.
Origins of the sucking reflex
Studies have shown that the sucking reflex has a genetic basis. The sucking reflex is controlled by the brain stem, a primitive part of the brain responsible for vital functions. The intra-uterine intra-uterine environment also plays a role in the development of the sucking reflex.
Objectives of the sucking reflex
The sucking reflex enables newborns to suck intuitively and feed themselves from the moment they are born. But the sucking reflex also serves a dual purpose: it helps the baby to soothe itself, fall asleep or relax, particularly in the event of colic or teething pains.
Sucking has also been found to stimulate jaw and facial muscle development.
When does the sucking reflex disappear?
The sucking reflex disappears naturally between 4 and 6 months.
For some children, however, thumb sucking is not uncommon. thumb or a Pacifier until an older age. In this case, we speak of non-nutritive suckingThe term "non-nutritive sucking" refers to sucking on something other than food or mom's breast.
What type of Pacifier for my baby?
Sucking on a Pacifier satisfies the sucking reflex and gives baby a sense of comfort and satisfaction.
If you want to satisfy your child's need to suck with a Pacifier, you're spoilt for choice! pacifiers come in a variety of designs and materials, including :
- The silicone,
- Latex
- Or natural rubber.
Note the pacifiers physiological pacifiers Pacifier , like the Pacifier ChooChoo Élhée, respect the shape of baby's mouth and palate to promote optimal sucking and limit the risk of dental gaps.
Today, standards require European brands to manufacture BPA-freepacifiers . It's best to opt for a medical silicone teat, which is free from endocrine disruptors and 100% hygienic, thanks to its one-piece design.
We recommend that you choose an extra-fine Pacifier on a daily basis, which respects your child's dentition and protects against the risk of gap. On the other hand, we don't recommend pacifiers with a sweet taste to attract your baby. The discovery of sugar will come soon enough 😉
🚨Caution: dipping the teat in a sugary liquid to make it easier to take is not recommended, as it encourages sugar addiction and the risk of cavities in young children.
Introducing a Pacifier to make weaning easier for your child
pacifiers are also considered very useful during weaningas a replacement for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. They help to gradually reduce baby's dependence on the breast or bottle.
Reduce the risk of SIDS with a Pacifier for your baby
Studies have also shown that the use of a Pacifier reduces the risk of SIDS (=sudden infant death syndrome) by holding the baby's tongue in an anterior position, which can prevent airway obstruction.
5 tips to get the most out of your Pacifier
- Choose a Pacifier adapted to your baby's age.
- Don't force your baby to take a Pacifier.
- Do not attach the Pacifier to your baby's bed or clothes. However, the Pacifier can be attached to them with apacifier clip device. A pacifier clip is not recommended during naps or at night.
- Don't dip Pacifier in sugar or sweetened liquids (honey, for example, is forbidden for children under 3), to limit sugar addiction and prevent cavities in young children.
- Clean the Pacifier regularly with an organic fragrance-free organic cleanser then rinse thoroughly withclear water without using detergent.
- Change teats regularly, at the first sign of wear or damage.
In a nutshell
pacifiers are very popular accessories with babies, thanks to the soothing effect they provide. They respond to a sucking reflex present from intra-uterine life, and essential to your baby's development.
