Best Habit Elimination Books for Kids

Chronic thumb sucking, endless nail biting, or a constant pacifier use are difficult habits to eliminate. As a myofunctional therapist, I see how these prolonged habits negatively affect breathing patterns, speech development, and changes in our facial and oral cavities. Through therapy, I help parents with a game-based approach focused on correcting oral rest posture by utilizing positive reinforcement, repetition, and a lot of patience. These habits are best eliminated as soon as possible, around 18 months old, but parents often need help from an external source. I find that using the right book with relatable characters can help motivate children to kick this habit for good. These are some of my favorites to share with parents at the moment.

1. Best for Early Thumb Sucking Elimination: " Thumbs up Brown Bear" by Michael Dahl

   Reading Level: Ages 2-6

This book written by Michael Dahl follows our little brown bear who at first loves to suck his thumb. As you read along he notices that his favorite people: mom, dad and brother, don't suck their thumb and he starts his journey to slowly stop. Though the journey is not always easy, I have faith in our little brown bear.

Cheerful and playful, the cover of "Thumbs Up, Brown Bear"

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2. Best for Nail Biting Elimination: "The Berenstain Bears and the Bad Habit" by Stan and Jan Berenstain

   Reading Level: Ages 4-8

The Berenstain Bears collection of works, by Stan and Jan Berenstain, was a staple in my household going up, just like many of you. Their life lessons continue to hold true and for this story it is especially important if you have a nail biter in the family. This colorful story follows sister as she tries to break her bad habit of nail biting. Like their other works it ends of with a great lesson and is easily enjoyed many times over.

The Berenstain Bears tackle a challenging lesson in "The Berenstain Bears and the Bad Habit"

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3. Best for Early Pacifier Elimination: "No More Pacifier for Piggy!" by Bernette Ford

   Reading Level: Ages 2-4

Follow Piggy and his Ducky friend as they go on an adventure where Piggy's pacifier, which he is reluctant to give up, starts to get in the way of their fun games. This story aims to teach little ones that as we grow, it is normal to put away some habits so we can grow with our friends while being sensitive and charming.

Piggy embarks on a charming adventure, learning to part with his pacifier, in this delightful story by Bernette Ford and Sam Williams.

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Discovering what motivates your unique and wonderful child is all part of this journey, keep in mind that it may evolve over time and that is perfectly normal. Perhaps they will see themselves in this adorable main characters and move one step closer to letting go of this tricky habits. If you are finding it tough to navigate on your own, remember you are not alone. There is always a caring myofunctional therapist to help guide you on this journey so that your little one can flourish.