Fingernail Clipping

Clipping the fingernails of your infant can be extremely frightening, especially for the first time. The key to cutting tiny fingernails is patience and care. Try to trim your baby's fingernails when they are distracted. Some parents choose to trim the infant's nails while he or she is sleeping, in the car, after a bath, or nursing.

It is found that cutting nails is easier in a room that is comfortable for both you and the baby. The room should be well-lit so that you can see where exactly you are cutting to avoid clipping the nail too short. Make sure to use a pair of clippers made especially for a baby.

You may have to trim your baby's fingernails several times a week depending on how fast they grow. Toe nails should not grow as quick and should only need to be trimmed once a week or so. The best way to cut fingernails is usually right along the curve of the finger and toes can usually be clipped straight across and smoothed down for sharp edges.

Clipping the baby's nails is a lot easier with two people so it is suggested that you have one person holding your infant's hand while you are trimming their tiny fingernails.

During the first few trimmings you may cut your baby's finger slightly, if this happens just grab a tissue and hold it on the cut until the bleeding stops. Resist using a bandage or anything the baby might be able to put in his mouth and choke.

If you choose to use any form of liquid bandages, make sure they are approved for babies, that way you know your little one is safe.