We are privileged to have Dr. Susan Heitler, the esteemed author of "David Decides About Thumbsucking," as our special guest. Dr. Heitler is a clinical psychologist who has extensive experience in helping children and parents navigate the challenges of thumbsucking.
During the interview, Dr. Heitler provides valuable insights and practical advice on understanding and addressing thumbsucking in children. She begins by sharing her inspiration behind writing the book, which stems from her observations of children struggling with thumbsucking and the need for a child-friendly resource.
Dr. Heitler explains her approach to the topic, emphasizing the importance of engaging children through relatable stories and interactive exercises. Her book, "David Decides About Thumbsucking," takes young readers on a journey with David, a boy who wants to quit thumbsucking, as they explore decision-making and empowerment.
The discussion delves into the dental, emotional, and psychological impacts of thumbsucking on children's development. Dr. Heitler highlights how thumbsucking can affect dental health, leading to misalignment and bite issues that may require orthodontic intervention. She also addresses the emotional toll it can have on children's self-esteem and social interactions, particularly during their teenage years.
Throughout the interview, Dr. Heitler shares poignant real-life stories and anecdotes that have touched her. These stories highlight the emotional struggles faced by children due to thumbsucking and underscore the need for support and understanding.
Recognizing the signs of when thumbsucking becomes a cause for concern, Dr. Heitler provides guidance to parents on when to intervene and seek help. She explains the specific impacts of thumbsucking on infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children, shedding light on the developmental stages where intervention may be necessary.
Dr. Heitler goes on to discuss strategies for parents to support children who are struggling to stop thumbsucking. She offers practical advice on how to avoid common mistakes and provides techniques for helping children break the thumbsucking habit.
The interview also addresses misconceptions and myths surrounding thumbsucking that Dr. Heitler aims to debunk based on her research and experience. Additionally, she explores the role of stress and anxiety in thumbsucking and offers coping mechanisms for teenagers facing these emotions.
To wrap up the episode, Dr. Heitler focuses on the dental implications of thumbsucking, discussing common problems that can arise and specific age ranges where the habit can have a more significant impact on dental alignment and bite.
Listeners of all backgrounds, whether parents, caregivers, or professionals working with children, will find this episode enlightening and empowering. Dr. Susan Heitler's expertise and compassionate approach shed light on the complex issue of thumbsucking and provide practical strategies for supporting children on their journey towards breaking this habit and fostering healthy development.
About the Guest:
Dr. Susan Heitler, PhD is a Denver clinical psychologist and widely-read author.
Educated at Harvard and NYU, Dr. Susan Heitler (pronounced Height-ler) offers self-help information for individuals and for couples .
Dr. Heitler also writes for therapists, offering new understandings and treatments for anxiety, anger, depression, narcissism, and relationship challenges.
Exploring her work hopefully will clarify why Dr. Susan Heitler has earned a national and international reputation as one of America's leading psychologists.
For a complete listing of Dr. Susan Heitler's resources, please go to the websites as below:
