Before the playtex binky was introduced around 1935, mothers in the 1500's used a cloth tied with string holding seeds, meat, or lard, of all things, to calm baby. Then there was the silver spoon in the 17th and 18th centuries. Ever heard of 'born with a silver spoon in his mouth'? That's probably where it originated. Those spoons came equipped with coral and bone handles to add mystique and supposedly strength to baby's constitution. I don't quite get that one, but I guess it worked. That was followed with the rubber dummy at the end of the 1800's and beginning of the 1900's also known as the soother, in white and black rubber. Can you believe the white variety contained lead? I guess the point is, I could not find the 'finger in the mouth' as a bonafide pacifyer. I calmed myself, a little, by rationalizing; this was my doctor, he should know what he's doing. It didn't help much, I guess I just couldn't stop thinking about all those sneaky little places that fingers may end up touching before pacifying a helpless baby. Parents sure have persevered over the ages when it comes to pacifying baby.
Sorry, neurotic or not, the fingers have been everywhere maybe baby doesn't want them to be. I think about all the places the finger may have visited before arriving in baby's mouth. For starters, there's the nose, all other orifices, everything in the bathroom, the hair and skin products you may use, the laundry and it's detergents, have you ever read the warnings on the labels of bleach and dryer sheets? Followed by the kitchen sink, dirty dishes, trash, dish cloths, more cleaners, garbage disposals, and vacuums. And if you are a smoker or live with one it's in your pores. And I'm sure I've only scratched the surface. Ugh! Those dirty digits have touched it all. I know what you're thinking. Just wash your hands. Well, what are you going to be, the hand washing police? I hope I have put my finger on something, here.
Tips for Safe Use of Pacifiers
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; Mardi Lucich, MA 06/04
• Pacifiers should not be used to replace or delay meals; they should only be offered after meals or between feedings. It may be tempting to offer a pacifier to a child when it’s easy for you. However,
it is best to let the child decide whether and when to use it.
• Pacifiers should be of one-piece construction made with a firm nontoxic material that can be sterilized. They should have a soft nipple, air holes for ventilation, and have a shield that is wider than the child’s mouth.
• Never tie a pacifier to a child’s crib, or hang pacifiers around their neck or hands. This is very dangerous and could cause strangulation.
• Never dip a pacifier into honey or anything sweet before giving to a child.
• Never put a pacifier in your mouth first before giving to a child.
• Do not let children share each other’s pacifiers.
• Frequently check the pacifier, especially the
nipple end, to make sure it has not become
brittle and to see whether the rubber has changed color or is torn; discard if the nipple has become sticky, swollen, or cracked.
Good Luck! Good Parenting!!
Bon :)
