Anna and Dedo: A Thumb Ventures Out

Anna can do a lot at the age of four and she's very proud of it. But it's been pretty difficult to stop sucking her thumb. Until Anna discovers her thumb's secret and, together with her parents, finds an extraordinary solution.

For children who suck their thumbs, kicking the habit is a major developmental milestone. The beautiful story of Anna and her thumb allows children to reflect on the issue without it being portrayed in a negative or embarrassing light. At the same time, it offers useful resources for children and their families. Learn more about Anna and Dedo, find information on thumbsucking, and get access to free downloads (e.g., coloring pages and a reward calendar) at: www.annaunddedo.com.

Thumbsucking

Thumbsucking is a natural and absolutely harmless habit for babies and toddlers up to three years of age. However, starting at the age of three, if the thumb is sucked intensively and frequently, it can lead to problems with the teeth and jaw, abnormal drinking, eating and swallowing patterns, speech disorders and disordered breathing.. Therefore, most dentists recommend children stop sucking their thumbs by age three. Some children will stop sucking their thumbs on their own as they get older. Others become reliant on thumbsucking for everyday activities like falling asleep.

We believe a feel-good story, like Anna and Dedo, can make children realize that it's worth quitting. We designed this book to be positive, realistic, and to provide strategies for weaning the thumb.