Ask Special Parents: I need help with is cutting the fingernails/toenails and giving haircuts

ASK SPECIAL PARENTS

I am looking for some advice or suggestions~ my little hero is diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (specifically hypotonia) & Autism. The issue I need help with is cutting the fingernails/toenails and giving haircuts.

~ Laurie S.

Many great ideas we’re suggested. The majority said cut and trim nails right after a bath, when the nails are still soft. If clipping noise bothers the child, use scissors or fingernail file. Other suggestions were to trim nails while the child is in a deep sleep, although many said this would not work for their child. As for haircuts, use distractions such as a really good movie or trim in front of TV. Many suggested the use of rewards. One mother recommended trimming while child was in the bathtub since the child was already in a sitting position.

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This post originally appeared on our July/August 2012 Magazine