Advice History

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, nose-picking is one of those self-comforting habits that tend to decrease as your child gets older. They also suggest refraining from using harsh words or humiliation tactics to get your child to stop. This type of ridicule tends to exasperate the problem. Simply let them know that nose-picking is not an appropriate behavior in front of people and that they need to use a tissue when their nose is stuffed up. Have them keep a tissue in their pocket and remind them to use it when you see them sticking their finger in their nose.

Do As I Say, Not As You Just Saw Me Do

Making too a big deal about nose picking may reinforce the behavior; kids will learn that they can provoke a quick and entertaining response from parents with just one finger.

If a child is actually picking, offer to help him wipe his nose with a tissue. Be consistent and even-toned about it. Practice or make a game out of his learning how to blow his nose.

While it's an important safety lesson to teach a child not to stick things up his nose, a toddler will probably have a hard time distinguishing between "picking your nose," which you just told him not to do, and "scratching your nose," which he just saw you do at the red light.  When teaching polite behavior, and setting expectations, don't forget the influence of a parent's example.