What is the correct way to correct baby's nail biting?

In life, some babies like to bite their nails no matter they are watching TV or playing, and the more they bite, the more severe the bite. When this happens, we generally have to consider whether the child is zinc or calcium deficient. Faced with this situation, many parents don’t know what to do. In many cases, parents take punishment measures, but the children will not pay any attention. In fact, as long as you understand the reason why your baby bites his nails, you can correct it quickly. Let’s learn about how to correct babies’ nail biting.

Frequent nail biting is called onychophagia, which is a frequent and uncontrollable behavior and a common oral addiction in children and adolescents.

1. General treatment

Parents should first realize that this is a disease and simply resorting to beating, scolding or punishment is not only unhelpful, but will make the condition worse. Secondly, we should actively look for factors that cause tension and anxiety, and promptly improve children’s living environment and cultivate healthy living habits. In addition, children's nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent nail infection and cuticle damage.

2. Psychological Therapy

The main methods used are behavioral restrictions and positive guidance. The so-called behavioral restriction means that when a child bites his nails, parents should patiently teach him to slowly move his fingers away from his mouth, and express approval with a smile, nod or praising tone, and use a meaningful thing or toy to distract the child's attention. Positive guidance is to explain the reasons clearly to the older children who cooperate, so that they realize that nail biting is a behavioral deviation and the harm of nail biting, which can be completely corrected through their own efforts. At the same time, children are encouraged to participate in more group activities and outdoor exercises to develop their potential and promote healthy physical and mental development.

Regarding the issue of babies biting their nails, parents should first be patient. They should not force their babies to correct their behavior, nor beat or scold their children. Moreover, the process of correcting a baby's nail biting is relatively long, so you should maintain a good attitude. Secondly, you should not ignore this problem, because it will have a certain impact on the child in the long run.