Sometimes trimming your child's nails to prevent scratching isn't enough.
Very few things can frustrate a parent like a toddler constantly scratching herself. Toddlers and young children affected by chickenpox, rashes or itchy bug bites cannot help but scratch. As parents, we know the importance of preventing scratching to allow for healing. Using gloves to prevent scratching in toddlers will become an important tool in the healing process. Finding gloves or other covers that the toddler will agree to wear remains the biggest challenge we face.
Mittens
Some parents use big, puffy mittens that feature a nylon shell on the outside. The combination of the nylon shell along with the fiber fill inside of the mittens makes scratching nearly impossible. At times, parents deem it necessary to tape the cuffs of the gloves tightly around the toddler's wrist so he cannot pull them off. If you are using tape, use caution to ensure that blood circulation does not get cut off.
Tube Socks
Sliding tube socks over the hands and up the arms can work effectively to help prevent your toddler from scratching in her sleep. Sometimes the weave in tube socks does not prevent scratching very well, so keeping your toddler's nails trimmed short becomes essential.
Cotton Gloves
Cotton gloves work to prevent scratching by your toddler, especially at night when she may scratch unconsciously. To encourage their use, draw silly faces on each finger. Allow your child to help you choose the gloves based on her favorite fairytale princess or superhero character. When the child participates, she will proudly wear the gloves and not even realize the reason she must wear them.
Coflex Vet Wrap
Coflex vet wrap, a self-sticking gauze sold at most pet supply stores, works like an ace bandage. Since no pins or clips are required to hold it in place, Coflex remains a safe choice when used on toddlers and wrapped around their hands before bedtime. Coflex, available in many colors that toddlers may find fun, includes self-stick features that make difficult for toddlers to remove themselves. Those with allergies to latex cannot use these products.
Tags: prevent scratching, your toddler, nylon shell, tube socks, your child