Any suggestions on how to get my 3 year old to stop pulling his fingernails off?

Question

We keep his nails trimmed. But even after we have trimmed them he will pick at them and try to pull off. Which usually leads to him hurting his fingers.

We do tell him no or to stop. He will stop that one time but goes right back to it a minute later.

He doesn't bite his nails he pulls them with his fingers.

Answer 1

Here's a thought: try telling him "No" and see what happens. Jeez...... it's only a one syllable word and yet so many parents have a hard time saying it.

Well then keep telling him "No". Consistency is very important at this age. Trust me, I have a 4 year old who used to bite his nails and started as soon as he got his teeth

Answer 2

I know that it sounds mean but there is this stuff at the store that you can buy that taste like crap. you put it on his nails and he wont like the taste of it. Of course that is if he is chewing on them, if he is using his hands then I really dont know. Sorry hope I could be of some help.
Good Luck

Answer 3

i have bitten my nails bloody since i was a child, its worst when i get nervous, i've stopped, for peroids of time, but only through sheer willpower to stop. i always go back too. i have no idea why, i have gotten better and don't make them bloody so much anymore. anyway! i wish you luck, i am still trying to figure out how to make myself stop.. and i'm 23.

Answer 4

This is called self injury.
He could use an evaluation by a medical doctor and a therapist that works with small children.

Good luck.

Answer 5

if he pulls them off with his mouth(ie:bting them off) i suggest putting vinager on his nails.once he taste that stuff he won't want any part of his nails

Answer 6

put hot sauce on it.