How to Clip Toddlers' Nails When They Are Scared

Clipping nails doesn̵7;t normally take much time, but a squirming, scared youngster can turn a relatively simple task into a grueling ordeal. Keep your toddler̵7;s nails short and don't allow them to grow past the fingertips. Although you generally need to trim a toddler̵7;s fingernails one or two times a week, toenails grow more slowly and only need clipping about once a month. When it comes time to trim your child's nails, you can employ a few techniques to avoid a struggle.

Things You'll Need

  • Child nail clippers
  • Small scissors with blunt edges

Instructions

    • 1

      Encourage your toddler to watch you clip your own nails or one of her sibling̵7;s nails. That way, she̵7;ll see it doesn̵7;t hurt. Avoid talking too much about what you are doing.

    • 2

      Give your toddler a bath in warm water before clipping his nails. Little ones usually find a bath relaxing, and the water will soften his nails, making them easier for you to trim.

    • 3

      Use baby nail clippers or scissors with blunt edges. A frightened toddler doesn̵7;t usually sit still, so using scissors with sharp points could lead to injury. You can get child nail clippers that come with a magnifying glass that make the job easier and safer.

    • 4

      Work in an area with good lighting. Hold your toddler in your lap or sit next to him. KidsHealth suggests holding your toddler̵7;s palm and finger with one hand as you trim his nails using the clippers in your other hand.

    • 5

      Enlist the aid of a helper. Have someone distract your toddler̵7;s attention while you clip her nails. Singing not only distracts a toddler, it entertains her and keeps the mood light. You can also ask someone else to hold her. The other person can keep her from moving while you trim her nails.

    • 6

      Take a break. If your toddler becomes upset while you are clipping his nails, stop and give him some time off. Working fast isn̵7;t necessarily the solution with a little one who is struggling to get away. When your toddler won̵7;t cooperate, don̵7;t think you have to clip all his nails at once.

    • 7

      Clip away once she̵7;s asleep. This doesn̵7;t work for light sleepers, but, for toddlers who are in a heavy sleep, you may be able to pull it off without her waking. You can tell that a toddler is in deep sleep if her arms and legs are floppy and her hands are open, notes Ask Dr. Sears.

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