How to Get Kids to Stop Biting Fingers

Finger biting and nail biting habits of kids are familiar to most parents. Kids bite their fingers to relieve boredom, or use the habit as a channel to express their concerns and worries that a parent may be unaware of. While you may find your kid's habit disgusting, it is important to understand why he is doing it and then initiate steps to put a stop to the habit. As with any unhealthy habit, it takes patience and continuous discipline to encourage your child to break the habit.

Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the reason behind your child's nail biting. Kids often bite their fingers in response to stress. Your kid may be missing his best friend who has moved to another school or he may be grieving over the unfamiliar atmosphere in the karate school you recently enrolled him in. Ultimately, finger biting is one way your child may express his anxiety resulting from being placed in a specific situation. Ask your child what's bothering him. Talk to him regarding his concerns and help him overcome his anxieties.

    • 2

      Avoid yelling or punishing if you find your kid biting his fingers or nails. Instead, tell her in a firm, calm voice that you don't like her habit and that she has to stop doing it. Explain to her that her friends and teachers will gradually find her unpleasant if she continues with the habit.

    • 3

      Devise substitute habits your kid could use whenever he feels the urge to bite his fingers or nails. Involve your kid in forming alternate habits by asking him to give ideas for such habits. Remind him of this habit you agreed on whenever you see him biting his fingers.

    • 4

      Show your appreciation each time your kid restrains himself from biting her fingers. Praise her and hug her, and offer a treat such as more play time. Promise her a toy if she keeps up her good behavior. Do not restrict your praises and prizes to one day; do it every day. This will encourage her to stick to the new habit and gradually wean herself from biting her fingers.

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