"The Thumblady"

All About The Thumb Lady's Program for
Thumb and Finger Sucking

90% of all clients seen either significantly alter their thumbsucking or quit within 1-3 days!

My program is based on behavior modification and positive reinforcement.

For many children, this time is one of the hardest times in their lives. I am there for them to help them get through it. On our first appointment, we talk, we explore, we brainstorm, we decide if the time is right to stop thumbsucking, -- and we do it! This is a mutual decision between the child, parent, and myself.

On that day, I provide the gentle reminding supplies needed. Also, I will thoroughly observe their orofacial muscle function, lip strength, tongue behavior, and swallow/chewing patterns. A record of my observations is sent to their referring dentists and doctors who participate in that child's well-being. Over 85% of children who suck their thumbs beyond age 5 may have difficulties with tongue and oral muscle movement, speech, swallowing, chewing, crowded bites, or lip closure due to functional and structural changes which may have occurred from prolonged thumbsucking. We want to know if any of these are an issue so that your child can be referred to the proper resources, and so that I may provide exercises to encourage positive muscle function.

9-Year-Old Child's Mouth

before the program (top)

 

 

at 30 days in the program (middle)

 

 

and at 60 days in the program (bottom)

 

 

 

 

Continuous positive reinforcement

Your child will call me daily to talk. I will see them in my office at 10, 20, 30, and 60 days. This allows them to receive the positive reinforcement and encouragement so vital to success, and emotional support needed during a challenging moment. When we have reached the milestone of 30 days no thumb, it's "Thumb Day", and we throw a party; cupcakes, balloons, praise, and a "special ceremony" to mark what may truly be your child's most significant childhood accomplishment.

Mara and I celebrating "Thumb Day" (no thumbsucking for 30 days) with a party

 

Shari Green, C.O.M.
I.A.O.M. Certified Orofacial Myologist

Feel free to email me with any questions at: thumblady@yahoo.com

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