#asktheexpert

my grandson eats mud and licks the wall of the room. Please suggest medicine

Question

#asktheexpert

my grandson eats mud and licks the wall of the room. Please suggest medicine

Accepted Answer

Eating non-food items like paint and bricks can be dangerous for a child's health and safety. If your two-year-old is engaging in this behavior, it's essential to address it promptly. Here are some steps you can take:

1. **Supervise Closely:**
   - Ensure constant supervision to prevent the child from accessing non-food items. Keep hazardous materials out of reach.

2. **Childproof the Environment:**
   - Childproof your home by securing cabinets, drawers, and any areas where potentially harmful items are stored. Use safety locks and latches.

3. **Remove Hazardous Items:**
   - Identify and remove any hazardous items within the child's reach. This includes small objects, sharp items, and anything that could be harmful if ingested.

4. **Provide Safe Alternatives:**
   - Offer safe and age-appropriate alternatives for your child to explore, such as teething toys or soft, non-toxic play materials.

5. **Educate About Dangers:**
   - In simple terms, explain to your child that certain items are not safe to eat. Use consistent and clear language.

6. **Redirect Attention:**
   - When you observe your child attempting to eat non-food items, gently redirect their attention to an appropriate activity or toy.

7. **Offer a Balanced Diet:**
   - Ensure that your child is getting a balanced and nutritious diet. Sometimes, unusual cravings for non-food items can be associated with nutritional deficiencies.

8. **Consult with a Pediatrician:**
   - If the behavior persists, consult with a pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues or nutritional deficiencies.

9. **Address Teething Discomfort:**
   - If teething is a factor, provide safe teething toys or offer cold, firm items to chew on to soothe teething discomfort.

10. **Create a Safe Play Area:**
    - Designate a safe play area with age-appropriate toys and activities. This can help limit access to potentially harmful items.

11. **Positive Reinforcement:**
    - Praise and positively reinforce good behavior. When your child makes positive choices, acknowledge and encourage them.

12. **Seek Professional Help:**
    - If the behavior persists and is causing significant concern, consider seeking guidance from a pediatric psychologist or behavioral specialist.

Always prioritize your child's safety. If you suspect your child has ingested something harmful, contact your local poison control center or seek immediate medical attention.

Remember that each child is unique, and if you're uncertain about how to handle the situation, consult with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your child's specific circumstances.