May 09, 2023 5 min read

 

Whether you're parenting a child with a strong will or raising an eager young child, there are some child behavior issues that are typical. How you respond to these bothersome behaviors will have a significant impact on whether your child repeats them. In this blog post, we'll discuss 8 typical annoying habits noticed in kids and provide some solutions on how you can deal with them.

 

What Is a Bad Habit?

 two kids with foreheads together screaming at each other

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A bad habit is a pattern of action that a youngster engages in repeatedly without realizing it. Nearly every child develops one or more bad habits at a young age. Even though some of these behaviors tend to fade over time, it's crucial to monitor the majority of them right away to ensure the healthy development of your child.

 

The Most Common Bad Habits in Children and How to Address Them

 

Below are some common annoying habits in kids and solutions on how you can deal with them:

 

1) Nail Biting

 little girl biting her nails

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The habit of biting or picking one's nails is one of the most common childhood vices. It's estimated that between 30-60% of children bite their fingernails. A child may, in rare cases, even bite their toenails.

Kids typically bite their nails when they are anxious or nervous. To deal with this nasty habit, keep your child's nails well-trimmed. Additionally, if they are feeling stressed, you can encourage them to use a stress ball or provide them with something to occupy their hands.

 

2) Bad Eating Habits

 girl at a table looking at food and not eating

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Bad eating habits, such as being fussy or overeating junk food, must be addressed since they can worsen with age. 

To deal with this habit, work proactively to help your kids develop a positive relationship with food. Saying things like "vegetables are healthy" should be avoided. Children frequently believe that healthy food tastes bad. Instead of saying this, explain the advantages of eating veggies to them. If they're still not convinced, try sneaking some vegetables into their favorite dishes. Once they've eaten them, tell them what you cooked. They'll come to understand that vegetables are not that bad.

 

3) Finger Sucking

 boy sucking his thumb

Credit: Dr.Weil

 

Thumb sucking is a common way for kids to unwind and feel better. However, if this habit continues past the age of 4 to 5, it can result in dental issues (such as an overbite), infections in the thumb or fingers, and bullying.

To deal with this annoying habit, apply various natural herbs with a bitter flavor on their thumb. They'll stop sucking their thumbs since they'll know they won't like the bitter taste.

 

4) Hair Twirling

 little girl twirling her hair

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Hair twirling is a common habit seen in girls compared to boys. Early childhood hair twirling can be a sign of hair pulling, whether or not there is hair loss.

The best course of action to cope with this habit is to ignore it or make your child aware that they shouldn't do it.

 

5) Whining

 little girl with angry face

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Whining can develop into a harmful habit, especially if it helps your child get their way. This irritating behavior needs to be corrected before it becomes a bigger problem.

To deal with this habit, ignore it and show your child that even if they disagree with you, you won't change your mind. Once they stop whining, give them positive attention.

 

6) Nose Picking

 little boy picking his nose

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Although it typically starts in childhood, nose-picking appears to be a habit that can persist into adulthood.

To deal with this habit, avoid constant criticism as this could exacerbate the situation. Instead, wash their hands or offer your child a tissue to use each time you observe them picking their nose. Additionally, explain to them the negative effects of nose-picking.

 

7) Defiance

 girl sitting on couch angry with arms crossed

Credit: Parents.com

 

Defiance is a challenging behavior to deal with. However, it's common for kids to occasionally challenge your boundaries.

To deal with this habit, you need to apply some kind of punishment system. Tell your child that they will not be allowed to play outside if they don't pick up their toys. Once they realize that defying you won't get them what they want, they'll start to listen to you.

 

8) Tempers Tantrums

 little girl screaming throwing tantrum

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Toddlers and preschoolers are particularly prone to having temper tantrums. However, if they are not quickly resolved, they may persist throughout elementary school.

One of the best methods to deal with tantrums is to ignore them. Teach your kids that pounding the ground or yelling won't get them what they want.

 

Helpful Tips for Dealing With Bad Habits in Kids

 

If managing your child's habits is challenging for you, consider the following tips:

 

1) Create A Code Word For The Negative Behavior

 mom talking to little child

Credit: Healthline

 

If your child has a bad habit, you can try to address it by turning your criticism into a game. To do this, create a code word for the bad habit. Every time you notice your child engaging in that behavior, say the code word loud to them. Every time you use the code word, make a note of it. If you don't use the code word even once throughout the day, give your child a treat. By doing this, your child will become conscious of his actions and learn to control the urge to engage in a harmful habit.

 

2) Praise Your Child For Their Good Behavior

 mom giving compliment to son with smile

Credit: Envato Elements/ Icons8

 

Speaking encouraging words to your child might go a long way toward helping them develop positive behaviors. Every time you witness your child deliberately resisting the impulse to engage in a negative habit, acknowledge it and express your gratitude to them. This will boost their self-esteem and morale.

 

3) Stay Patient

 family enjoying time together in kitchen

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Although dealing with a bad habit is an annoying situation, you must make an effort to maintain patience. In addition, try not to reprimand your child constantly. Be compassionate and patient with them while you strive to change their behavior.

 

Summary

 

There you have it—the common annoying habits in kids and how to deal with them. Remember that being patient, praising your child, and having a correction system in place is the best way to correct bad behavior. And if you're worried, don't be since most kids outgrow their habits as they get older.

Alex Wittle
Alex Wittle



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