How to Trim Toddlers' Toenails

Keeping toenails trimmed can prevent toenail infections.

Trimming your child's toenails helps prevent the nails from splitting, cracking or allowing bacteria to build up underneath the nails. Many younger children are often nervous about having their toenails trimmed, and may become fussy or upset when it is time to cut them. One way to make cutting toenails more simple and less stressful is to prepare your toddler's feet beforehand to soften the nails, and to hold your child's foot in a way that prevents her from seeing what you are doing.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Baby shampoo
• Baby brush
• Towel
• Children's nail clippers

Instructions

1. Fill a bowl with warm water, and place 1 tsp. of baby shampoo into the water. Mix well with your finger.

2. Soak your toddler's feet in the soapy water for five minutes. This will soften the toenails slightly, allowing them to be trimmed without splitting.

3. Scrub your toddler's feet and toes with a baby brush to remove any dirt or debris.

4. Dry your toddler's feet and toes off well with a soft towel.

5. Hold her big toe in your hand with the toenail facing away from you. Place the end of a pair of children's toenail clippers against the toenail, making sure that there is not skin in the way, and clip. Do not clip the nail down to the nail bed. Instead, leave a small length of nail to protect the toe bed.

6. Repeat this process with each toe on both feet. Keeping the toes facing away from your child will prevent her from becoming nervous about the toenail clipping.

References

• What To Expect: Taking Care of Toddler Nails