Giving up the pacifier also called "binkies" is a major step in growing up.Some pediatricians say 12 months is the right time to wean your child from using a pacifier. Some children continue to use a pacifier into toddler and even pre-school years.Most experts agree it's better to stop using a binky sooner rather than later. Expect your child to be fussy when you pull the plug.Your child may try to replace sucking on the binky by wanting a milk bottle. You want to give them an empty bottle or a bottle that contains only water so as to not have weight gain. Finding a substitue is much easier at an early age rather than waiting.If your child requires a pacifier to sleep, you will likely have to get up in the middle of the night and find it for them.Parents often get rid of the pacifier by having their child trade it in for a toy. When your child wants their pacifier just remind them they now have a great toy instead.Just like leaving a tooth under the pillow will bring the toothfairy, the pacifairy can come and leave a surprise as well.Prolonged use of a pacifier can lead to speech and language development problems, tooth misalignment and ear infections.A pacifier can prevent socializing during the day. You want them to be able to start using words to express their emotions. Using the binky at night can help comfort the child. Offten parents don't want to take away the pacifier because it can create quiet in the home and prevent tantrums. Taking away the pacifier can impact the mothers emotional and physical state.Holding a blanket or doll at night may be a way to comfort your child instead of giving them the pacifier.Another technique often used by parents is to tell their child they know a new baby that needs a pacifier. Tell your child they are a growing boy or girl and they can help a baby by passing along their binky.

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