One Mom's Journey

When my oldest daughter was 2, I started trying to figure out how to get rid of that darn soother.  Her soother attachment was getting out of control.  Parents with children and soothers totally understand this constant battle to wean the child of the soother.  It is not easy, and we sometimes lack the confidence to take it away.  I know myself, I feared losing the afternoon nap and the constant battle to stop the crocodile tears. I am sure you all felt similar.  While researching some different methods, I came across this awesome list from About.com and thought I would share it.

1. Cold turkey. Stand your ground and don't give in!  It is tough, but you can do it.
2. Phase it out. Start by only allowing it at bed times and in the car, then take away the car, then take away nap, then take away overnight.  Over time is the key to this one.
3. Say hello to the "Soother Fairy" or any other mythological creature of your choosing. The goal here is to take the pressure and anger off of the parents and transform it into a rewarding event. Soothers or pacifiers go to the mythological fairy in exchange for a treat or a present. Preparation is key for this, so best to use a book or song as a tool - and repeat it often.
4. Make the pacifier disappear. Involve your pre-schooler in the cause. Mail it to a baby who needs it, place it in the garbage together, or have them give it to a friend who is having a baby.  Make them feel important and involved in this big kid decision.
5. Sabatoge. Not a sweet method, but apparently effective (make sure you remove all the pieces) (For safety's sake: Note that cutting off the tip of the pacifier can be dangerous as a small piece can break off and become a choking hazard. If you go this route, be sure to only give your child the pacifier when you are present and check it regularly to make sure it is still sound.)
6. Let it stay lost (and don't buy any others). If it gets lost, do not replace it.
7. Let your preschooler decide. Put the idea in their head that at a certain age - three is good - that children no longer require pacifiers/soothers.  They will catch on when they go to school and see that no other child uses a soother but them.