Like any nasty habit that a child can have, nose picking is really no different than nail biting, breath holding or thumb sucking. As we adults know ourselves, bad habits are sometimes hard to break and nose picking is no different. For children, most of these habits are a part of the normal development process and although it may not look the nicest, it is no cause for alarm. The habit of nose picking can also affect a child that has allergies because of the heavy mucus flow from the nasal cavity. This can result in the feeling that there is something in there, thus leading to a child picking their nose.
Habits in general are behavioral patterns that are repeated and in most cases, the child is unaware of what they are doing. The habit of nose picking can sometimes even drift into adulthood. Studies show that over 90% of people admit to nose picking. Habits are generally born out of boredom and developed as entertainment or can be caused by a stressful event in their lives.
Instead of you yelling at your child to stop picking their nose, try these tactics instead:
Calmly point out to your child that their behavior is unacceptable and why it is so. Do not scold, lecture, ridicule or criticize your child. By doing this, you will most likely cause the behavior to escalate. Also point out that by picking their nose, your child is spreading germs and insist they wash their hands afterwards.
Involve your child in their stopping of the behavior. Ask them how they think that they can stop doing this.
Point out correct behavior. Occupy your child's attention by doing other things to get them to stop picking their nose. An example would be to have them help you in the kitchen or allow them to do a craft.
You can also try rewarding good behavior if your child shows self control by giving them a sticker or another small prize. Make a chart and if your child goes for a week without picking their nose, reward them by with the chosen prize. Make ending the habit something fun, not harsh punishment.
Get a thorough physical checkup with a physician for your child. Sometimes nose picking can be a result of health issues, such as a stuffy nose or crusty gunk on the inside of their nose. If for instance, the problem is dryness, you will want to keep him and his nose hydrated. Offer him lots of fluids during the day or try a dehumidifier in the bedroom at night or use an over the counter saline nasal spray to combat this issue.
To be totally successful, you as a parent will have to realize that breaking a habit will take some time. Also, you will require some patience in dealing with your child with this. It is also important to have your child on board with breaking the habit. Your child must be motivated to want to break the habit, so it is best to think up a reward that will make it worth their while to stop.
