10 tips to solving the problem of baby biting nails and sucking fingers

Baby biting nails and sucking fingers are very common issue is babies. In the innocent world of children, frequent thumb sucking and nail biting are like small ripples. Although inconspicuous, they touch the heartstrings of caregivers. This behavior is not only a mark of children’s growth, but also hides their unique exploration of the world and emotional sustenance. Now, we will deeply analyze the growth needs behind this phenomenon and work with parents to build effective coping strategies.Let’s know how to solve the problem of baby biting nails and sucking fingers.

1. Cause Analysis: Insight into the Mind and Understanding Behavior

1. Oral sensitivity period is not met:

Babies enter the oral sensitivity period from 4 months old, and gradually pass the oral sensitivity period at 12 months old. If babies frequently suck their fingers and bite their nails before 1 year old, they are in the oral sensitivity period. They explore the world through their mouths and satisfy their curiosity about touch, taste, etc. If the needs of this period are not fully met, and adults prevent infants and young children from doing this and do not let them suck their fingers, it may cause children to frequently suck their fingers or bite their nails in the future, and develop oral sensitivity behaviors that are meant to make up for the shortcomings.

2. Relieve tension:

As they grow older, children face more and more new things. Some babies will feel overwhelmed and stressed when dealing with social and emotional changes. At this time, they may cope with these pressures by eating their hands or biting their nails as a way to relieve stress and soothe themselves.

3. Onychophagia :

Onychophagia is the habit of biting nails unconsciously and repeatedly, which is caused by tension, anxiety or bad habits. Severe cases require psychological treatment or medication. The incidence of onychophagia is relatively high in infants and young children. Studies have shown that about 20% to 45% of children will have onychophagia at some stage. The incidence of school-age children aged 7 to 10 is between 28% and 33%, and the incidence of children aged 10 to 15 is about 45%. At the age of 16 to 17, the incidence drops to about 20%. These data show that onychophagia is a relatively common problem among children and adolescents.

2. Response strategy: grow together and create a better future

Meet the needs of oral sensitive period

(1) If a child has the habit of chewing his or her thumb before the age of one, adults should satisfy the child by providing safe and hygienic chewing toys and allowing the child to explore freely.

(2) According to the child’s growth stage, gradually introduce appropriate complementary foods to meet his or her chewing needs.

(3) Understand and accept children’s emotions.

For children who suck their fingers or bite their nails due to nervousness, caregivers should avoid excessive criticism, give enough love and support, and help them learn the correct way to express their emotions . You can say: “I know you want to play with other children, let’s say hello to them together!” “I know you are a little angry now, if you are angry, you can stomp your feet to vent it.” In short, tell the child how he feels at the moment, and then tell the baby how to deal with the current emotions.

(4) Divert attention

Design a range of fun and stimulating games and activities to engage your child’s attention and reduce thumb sucking or nail biting behaviour.

(5) Encourage children to participate in outdoor activities or play with other children to increase opportunities for social interaction.

（6）Provide emotional support

Establish a good communication mechanism with children, understand their inner needs and feelings, and provide emotional support such as hugs and comfort when children need it to help them build a sense of security.

(7) Maintain hand hygiene

Guide children to develop a good habit of washing hands frequently to ensure that their hands are clean and hygienic. Trim children’s nails regularly to reduce the chance of them biting their nails.

Frequent thumb sucking and nail biting are a small part of a child’s growth. As the baby’s closest caregiver, we should accompany them through this special time with gentle eyes, understanding attitude, and scientific methods. Every child is a unique individual, and I believe that the baby will surely bloom with his or her own brilliance and a bright future.