When to bid farewell to your FRIGG pacifier

When a pacifier enters a child’s life, it brings unparalleled comfort. However, this special kind of comfort isn’t everlasting. The day of farewell will sooner or later arrive, but when is the right time? This blog draws on expert recommendations on pacifier use to help you identify the right answer. 

Transitioning away around 2-3 years: 

Pediatric dentists advise limiting pacifier use from age 2 and ending the habit by age 3, to prevent dental issues. Post age 3, pacifiers can contribute to overbite, open bite or cross bite – concerns that impact chewing, speech and appearance, which will often give birth to the necessity of orthodontic correction.

Most children are emotionally ready to part with the pacifier around ages 2-3. The preparation for this transition is crucial and since there are no strict guidelines for the timing and method, you need to navigate the process based on your child’s cues.

How to prepare for the goodbye:

Saying goodbye to a loyal companion is not easy, especially during a child’s first years. Gradual preparation is key, and this can be done in various ways. Start by removing the pacifier in relaxed and happy situations at home. Progress to moments when your child is happily playing outside. Then, gradually limit pacifier use during stressful situations, encouraging alternative comfort methods, such as cuddle cloths and teddy bears.

Remember, separation is a sad situation that might lead to a few challenging nights, but enduring this temporary discomfort, ensures a lasting end to the pacifier habit. By the time the farewell is history, your child will have already discovered alternative sources of comfort. 

Fun fact: In Denmark, children ‘sacrifice’ their pacifiers to so-called ‘pacifier trees’, as part of the farewell ritual.