Psychological research with babies six months to a year old suggest that children who suck their thumbs, fingers, or pacifiers actually may develop more self-confidence than those who do not. Mothers of these infants stay in frequent contact with their children, but are able to do so with words and smiles rather than needing to hold them physically. When infants seek extra sucking, some mothers offer additional time at the breast. Others encourage use of pacifiers.
Some babies discover their fingers or their thumbs.
Another option, especially for older infants, is a bottle of water at bedtime. The bottle can be sucked instead of thumbs, fingers, or pacifiers with less likelihood of leading to sucking habits. Bedtime bottles should contain only water. Sugar-flavored water, juice, or even milk can cause serious decay in baby teeth because the liquid coats the teeth for the night. Drinking extra fluids in the form of plain water, however, is excellent for babies' health.