#394 - Is Thumb Sucking Sensory? What to Know (and What to Do)

Is your child constantly sucking their thumb or fingers and you’re wondering if it’s sensory, habit, or something else? This episode comes straight from a parent question on Instagram, and we’re breaking it all down.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why thumb and finger sucking is considered oral sensory seeking

• When sucking is developmentally appropriate and when to look closer

• Common reasons older kids continue sucking for regulation or anxiety

• How to talk to your child about the habit in a supportive way

• Practical sensory and oral motor replacements that actually help

Thanks for listening 🩷 If this question hit close to home, share this episode with another parent who’s navigating thumb or finger sucking too.

We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3

Z-Vibe 

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/arks-z-vibe-vibrating-oral-motor-tool/ 

Chew Tubes

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/handheld-chews/ 

Chewlery

https://www.arktherapeutic.com/chewelry/ 

5 Ways to Use Proprioception for Calming and Regulation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHdCj8sWtV0 

Top 10 Oral Motor Activities Every Parent Should Know

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEXEbyBX858&t=443s 

Sensory Snacks Explained

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOswosl5pHg

All Things Sensory Ep. 376 - Oral Sensory Seeking in Kids

https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/376-oral-sensory-seeking-in-kids-what-you-need-to-know-how-to-help

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ 

Harkla Website 

https://harkla.co/ 

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​​https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily 

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ 

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https://harkla.co/collections/courses