Great Uncle Fred? Why do babies suck dummies? (Anonymous small person, Autumn 2008)

I am not sure that I am the right person to answer this question as I have never had to look after a baby and I can hardly remember being one. Really, I think this is a question one might best ask one`s mother, or some other cuddlesome relative. However, I`ll say what I think. I think the main thing about dummies is the name. A dummy is a pretend something. Dummies pretend to be what babies feed from and remind them of all the lovely feelings they get when having a right good nosh-up. This can help when they are feeling bored, hungry, tired or uncomfortable. It`s a shame there is nothing so handy for grown-ups! By the way, the first dummy ever depicted, apparently, was in a painting of the Madonna and Child by Durer, painted in the early 16th century. So, Anonymous Small Person, now you know!

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