How to Stop Toddler's Nail Biting

When your toddler starts nail biting it could be due to something as simple as boredom or there could be an underlying compulsive behavior disorder. Biting nails typically does not cause any long-term damage but it is unsanitary and can cause infection to the skin around the nail. It's better to stop the behavior as a toddler before it turns into a hard-to-break habit in adulthood.

Things You'll Need

  • Activities
  • Educational toys
  • Frozen popsicle
  • Lollipops
  • Toddler fingernail clippers

Instructions

    • 1

      Lower your child's stress and anxiety levels. Toddlers can experience stress just like an adult. Some toddlers use nail biting as a way to cope with anxiety and stress. To help alleviate stress in his life, spend more time with him. Give him extra attention and affection.

    • 2

      Keep your child occupied. Nail biting can occur when your child is bored. If this is the case, have activities and educational toys to keep him engaged. Keeping his hands busy will help keep them away from his mouth.

    • 3

      Give your child a substitute. When you notice your child biting his nails, give him a frozen popsicle or lollipop.

    • 4

      Ignore the behavior. Giving attention when he is biting his nails may cause him to continue with the behavior. Instead, praise and reward him when he is not biting his nails.

    • 5

      Trim his nails regularly. If the fingernails are kept short, the urge to bite them may be lessened.

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