Transitioning a toddler away from the use of the pacifier for comfort can feel daunting and bring up feelings of anxiety for many caregivers. Children become very attached to the use of the pacifier for sleep, transitions, and overall comfort so understandably, limiting the use of it can often bring about big feelings and resulting behavior challenges. The process of eliminating the pacifier generally goes smoother when done gradually over time and allowing a child time to emotionally prepare for it. Check out these 8 tips on gently transitioning your toddler away from the pacifier: 

1. Be clear and set limits: Give your child set times for pacifier use, like nap time and bedtime. 
2. Offer an additional comfort item: Let your child choose another item to use additionally during those time that will offer comfort along with the pacifier. This will help when the pacifier is eventually gone.
3. Read books: Children learn through stories, so find books about getting rid of pacifiers to read with them. This is a great time to open up dialogue about it and to help your little one prepare for when the day comes that the pacifier goes away.
   • No More Pacifier, Duck by Michael Dahl
   • Pacifiers Are Not Forever by Elizabeth Verdick
   • Bye, Bye Binky by Maria van Lieshout
4. Get visual: Make a calendar and set a countdown to the day that the pacifier will go away. Put this in a place where the toddler can see it and refer to it often to help them prepare. 
5. Choose a new comfort item: As the countdown gets closer to the last day of pacifier use, allow your little one to choose a new toy or item for nap and bedtimes. Be encouraging and excited about the new item.
6. Set the tone: Be excited about the change and set a positive tone for the transition. Speak about it in a way that empowers your child in the process.
7. Say goodbye: Plan a goodbye ceremony or party for the pacifier. Make it exciting and a big deal to celebrate that the pacifier is going away. 
8. Be supportive: Let your child know that you believe in them. Show empathy and support them when big feelings inevitably come up. Allow them to have whatever feelings arise and validate that it is a difficult process for them. Validating their feelings doesn’t mean that it has to change the outcome, but it can help limit the challenging behaviors as they feel understood.

Remember that there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to parenting or an individual child’s readiness. You, as the caregiver, know your unique child best, so honor this process for you and your child’s timeline. Many caregivers start the process of weaning from the pacifier between the ages of 18 months and 4 years old. Talk to your pediatrician about any concerns and questions regarding pacifier use and in taking it away. This process can disrupt routine and doesn’t always go smoothly or as planned so give yourself a lot of grace too, as you support your little one.