Keeping your little one’s nails clean and trimmed isn’t as simple as it sounds; especially if the little one involved can’t sit still for two straight seconds. Short of putting up a nail spa in your own home, grooming a child’s nails requires much more than a nail clipper. You’ll need the right know-how, to start with. The best part about doing your child’s nails yourself is that, unlike at a nail spa, you can make sure to use only products that are appropriate for your child’s more sensitive skin and nails. Here are 6 tips on how to gear yourself up to groom your child’s nails at home in style!
1.
Acquire the right equipment.
Make sure to purchase a manicure kit with tools appropriate for children. Try this, mama: Safety 1st’s grooming and nail care kits provide a small, sturdy clipper that will last many years. It even comes with extra-fine emery boards.
2.
Keep hands in good condition.
Teach your child that nail-damaging habits such as sucking on and biting them is unsanitary and should be avoided. Hangnails should not be pulled or bitten off--that can cause bleeding! It’s best to prevent hangnails from forming at all by making sure to apply lotion on your child’s hands after baths and handwashing. Using gentle, moisturizing soaps and handwash can help prevent hangnails as well. If your child does get one, trim it off closely with nail scissors. It’s a good idea to cover it with a bandaid to prevent it from getting caught on anything (or tempting them to bite it!) and promote healing.
3.
Choose a good time to do your trimming.
It’s always best to cut a baby’s nails when he or she’s asleep, which is why some nail clippers are equipped with a light. For older children, choose a time when they’re relaxed and you aren’t in a rush. After a bath is a good time, especially since tough toenails are easiest to cut when damp.
4.
Hold firm.
Hold fingertips and toes firmly when cutting to prevent wriggling. This holds true even for kids who are asleep when you’re trimming, as they may move involuntarily or wake up unexpectedly.
5.
Cut them short but not too close.
Much as you’d want to prevent your active child’s nails from getting dirt under them or breaking, it will be uncomfortable for your child if they’re cut too close to the nail bed. Rather than constantly nipping to achieve a perfectly rounded shape, use an emery board to smooth jagged edges.
6.
Add some fun and style once in a while.
Some older kids might want the full nail spa treatment and get their nails beautified as well as groomed. Use polish that’s especially formulated for children. Try this, mama: No Nasties nail polish—it’s all-natural, with no harmful chemicals, and is easy to peel off, preventing the need for harsh, smelly polish remover. Alternatively, you could cover each nail with No Nasties or Joan Miro nail stickers. This would make a great party or sleepover activity. While event planners offer this service, it’s easy to set up your own table with kid-safe polishes and stickers.
As you can see, keeping your child’s nails neat can be not only pain-free, but also a fun, bonding experience that beats bringing your child to a nail spa with you. Happy trimming!