Device for the prevention of thumb sucking

Abstract

A device for preventing thumb sucking is provided, comprising a glove worn on a hand, wherein the glove includes a first opening for insertion of the hand, a second opening opposite the first opening for permitting uncovered use of the four fingers of the hand; a thumb covering portion for completely covering the thumb of the hand while the glove is worn on the hand; and a fastening device adjacent to the first opening for preventing removal of the glove from the hand; wherein the glove is constructed from a material containing one or more designs which are attractive to a child wearing the glove.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] I. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to devices used to prevent thumb-sucking, and more particularly to such devices which cover the thumb in the form of a glove or mitten on the hand.

[0003] II. Background and Prior Art

[0004] Thumb sucking and finger sucking are unsightly and unhealthy habits frequently adopted by children. Although these habits are extensions of the child's innate desire to suck, some children carry the habit well beyond the age when the child is weaned from breast or bottle-feeding. Except where the context of usage indicates otherwise, the term “thumb sucking” is hereafter used to denote sucking one's thumb, index finger, or any other manual digit.

[0005] In addition to being unsightly, thumb sucking also can have side effects deleterious to a person's health. For instance, any dirt or germs on the thumb sucker's hands becomes ingested into the body. When thumb sucking persists as the child ...

Images