His Own Time

Caedmon is 7.

Caedmon has sucked his thumb since birth.

At 3, we were a little concerned about it. The doctor shrugged and said we could try to do something about it but it wasn't that big of a deal.

At 4, we commented to him that maybe we should start working on not sucking his thumb anymore.

At 5, we talked to his dentist about it and she told us he would quit when he was ready.

We had already learned from potty training with Damek that kids are pretty awesome at picking their own time line so we decided to sit back and wait.

At 6, he endured comments from multiple loved ones and basically told them where to get off, he loved his thumb and he would continue doing his thing, thank you very much.

At 7, well, it began as any other year has. But three nights ago I noticed he was quite restless and hyper-tired, not typical for him but occasionally we all have nights. The next night was very similar. That was strange. The third night I wondered if he was coming down with some sickness that is taking forever to manifest? What in the world is going on?!

Then I realized, it has been a REALLY long time since I have heard the sucking sounds of a thumb in a mouth! Could he be quietly weening himself without saying a word to any of us?

I decided not to say anything. Maybe he didn't tell us because it wasn't a discussion he wanted to have.

It made me tear up a bit. Watching my independent 7 year old go this struggle alone. I am so proud of him. So proud of his perseverance. He's shown it in many things in his young life. It makes my heart happy for the man he is growing to be.