When Can a Baby Put His Own Pacifier in His Mouth?

A baby might be able to put his own pacifier in his mouth for the first time sometime between age 4 and 7 months. Children develop at different rates, but around age 3 months, according to Healthy Children, the American Academy of Pediatrics' website, most babies will bring their fist to their mouth and reach for objects. By 7 months, he can use a raking grasp to pick up objects.

  1. Mechanics of Pacifiers

    • Pacifiers are molded artificial nipples. They are sized to fit different ages, so buy the right one for your child. WebMD reports that giving a pacifier intended for a younger baby to an older one could cause your baby to choke on it. Nipples come in different styles. The Healthy Children website recommends getting a pacifier that is molded in one piece and that features a soft nipple. Young babies keep the pacifier in their mouths by sucking on it. Older babies can use their hands to remove and replace the pacifier in their mouths.

    Baby's Manipulation of the Pacifier

    • The National Network for Childcare lists two key developmental milestones that your child will need to be able to replace his own pacifier when he drops or spits it out: being interested in tasting or mouthing items in his environment and being able to grasp and manipulate objects. Most babies are able to do both of these things by age 6 months, and some might begin a little earlier. By age 7 or 8 months, your little one should be able to remove and replace his own pacifier.

    Safety and Health

    • Once your baby can remove his own pacifier, he might develop some new interactive games, which can include dropping or throwing the pacifier. A tired parent might be tempted to put the pacifier on a string around the child's neck or tether it to his crib or highchair. However, the Healthy Children website cautions that this is a dangerous practice that can lead to injury or even death. Furthermore, once the pacifier lands on the floor, it needs to be washed with soap and water before giving it back to the baby. Avoid frustration by carrying a couple of extras when shopping or traveling.

    Pros and Cons of Pacifiers

    • Pacifiers can provide comfort to little ones who need extra sucking beyond that which is provided by nursing or bottle feeding. It is easier to wean your baby from a pacifier than from thumb sucking, and it might help prevent sudden infant death syndrome, according to the Healthy Children website. WebMD states that pacifiers have been associated with a higher rate of middle ear infection and misalignment of teeth when your child is older. All of the resources listed agree that there is little benefit to allowing use of a pacifier after your baby's first birthday.

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