How to Make a Kid Keep His Hands Out of His Mouth
- 1). Discuss the dangers with your child about putting his fingers in his mouth. Explain how it can make him sick because of the germs on his hands.
- 2). Remind your child gently to take his fingers out of his mouth. Do not criticize your kid about his habit.
- 3). Create a reward system that uses positive reinforcement. Give your child a treat or a gift for each day he doesn't put his fingers in his mouth. Make the time span longer as time goes on. Use a calendar as a visual representation so your child can track his success.
- 4). Discuss alternative ways for your child to channel his urge to put his fingers in his mouth. Suggest he squeeze a pillow or something else soft when he feels the temptation.
- 5). Put gloves on your child or wrap his fingers in adhesive bandages. Apply a bitter tasting nail coating designed to stop children from putting fingers in their mouths.
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