Ep 334: Bye-Bye Thumb! Myo & Airway Strategies to Break the Habit for Good with Hallie Bulkin, MA CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™
In this episode of The Untethered Podcast™, Hallie Bulkin explores the complexities of thumb sucking in children, emphasizing that it is often a symptom of deeper issues such as airway obstruction and oral dysfunction. She discusses the importance of understanding the underlying causes of thumb sucking, the role of airway health, and the need for holistic approaches to treatment.
Hallie provides insights into effective strategies for addressing thumb sucking, including the use of therapeutic tools and the significance of early intervention. The conversation highlights the necessity of treating the whole child rather than just the symptom, advocating for a comprehensive understanding of pediatric health.
If this episode resonates with you, snap a screenshot of you listening and share it on your Instagram Stories! Tag Hallie @halliebulkin to spread the word.
If this episode resonates with you, snap a screenshot of you listening and share it on your Instagram Stories! Tag Hallie @halliebulkin
In this episode, you’ll learn:
✔️ Understanding Thumb Sucking: A Deeper Look
✔️ Addressing Airway Issues: The Root Cause
✔️ Strategies for Healthy Self-Regulation
Related Episodes:
- Episode 320: Understanding the Impact of Oral Restrictions on Growth and Development with Dr. Annie Babb, DDS
- Ep 309: 5 Airway Health Tips for Children with Hallie Bulkin, MA, CCC-SLP, CMT
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How often have you seen thumb sucking just to soothe/comfort and help fall asleep? My daughter became the best independent sleeper at 4.5 months of age when she found her thumb. She only sucked her thumb when sleeping and once she was 3 years of age she would find her thumb in the middle of the night and not use it to fall asleep. I used the nipit arm brace (can find on Amazon) and it worked well. We have orthodontic issues now but I assumed it was because her thumb was pushing her palate up for so many years. She’s never snored or had airway issues… how common is this?
Thank you so much for sharing your daughter’s story! Thumb sucking is very common as a self-soothing strategy, especially around sleep, and you’re not alone in seeing it help little ones become great independent sleepers. What you experienced with orthodontic changes is also common, since the thumb can place upward pressure on the palate and teeth over time, even if there aren’t obvious airway symptoms like snoring.
Every child’s journey looks a little different, but your story is such a great reminder that thumb sucking often starts as a comfort strategy and can still have long-term oral impacts, which is why we keep educating on early habits and prevention.
Thank you again for listening and for contributing your perspective, it helps other parents feel less alone in the process! 💛