How to Use a Pacifier

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Although it's a mother's instinct to know how to use a pacifier, new mothers may need a fresh helping hand when it comes to letting them know of the process. When this mother needs this type of help, this article can be there.

Steps

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    and fix the items that may be quickly taken care of (besides using the pacifier). Make a mental checklist in your mind of reasons why your baby might be crying that using a pacifier won't help fix.
    • The reasons are pretty endless. Perhaps it's the baby who feels it's time for a new diaper and doesn't want to feel that way, or perhaps it's hungry and it's coming due-time for a fresh baby bottle of formula, the baby could be sick or the room is not right temperature-wise.
    • Realize that these aren't the only reasons, but are two of the more common ones.
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    Although your system is different than anyone else's system, some of the more common places the pacifier could be kept could include on a shelf on the changing table underneath the changing station, on top of a dresser, or even in a cup-holder to the nearest baby stroller. The possibilities are endless and you know your house and organization style best.
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    They will eventually open their mouth just a little bit, enough for you to insert the pacifier into their mouth.
    • If they are wailing at the top of their lungs, you may skip this step - nothing will help them clench down to start using the pacifier until something else is solved.
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    Some babies are natural acceptors (accepting anything that's given to them) to soothe them into a calmer state. Other babies aren't, and will immediately push the pacifier back out - rejecting it.
    • The baby may reject the pacifier, if theirs another reason for their crying such as their diaper needs to be changed, or that they want food/formula/milk/etc. or for some other reason, that may be more urgent. Prepare a mental list of things the baby may need for you to complete and try giving the pacifier again.
    • Hold your baby upright for at least 20 minutes after they eat to ensure they digest properly.
    • Replace your pacifier every 2-3 months as your child wears out the old one and they develop new needs.
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  • Question
    How do I open a pacifier to put honey or something else in it?
    Kammyisawesome
    Community Answer
    With most pacifiers you don't open it; instead, you put the substance (like honey) on the sucking part of it.
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  • Question
    What can I put in my 5 months old baby's pacifier?
    Zack
    Top Answerer
    Never put anything in a pacifier. This could weaken the pacifier and endanger the baby.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      Tips

      • Babies can feel anything their parental figure feels. Always release any emotions before attending to your baby.
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      • Make sure both the pacifier and your hands are clean.
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      • After checking for problems and before putting the pacifier into the baby's mouth, try holding the baby and cuddling them in your arms. Sing lullabies and sweet, calming music which always seems to work. Not all situations need your baby to use a pacifier.
        Thanks
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