Is every day a real nail-biter for your children? Believe it or not, nail biting is a common habit among children. According to kidshealth.org, studies estimate that up to 60 percent of kids and teens nibble their nails down to the nubs. And while it may seem harmless, the reality is that the hand-to-mouth habit not only exposes your child to germs, but it also can contribute to infections. Oftentimes, children break the skin, germs get in there and it causes infections. There are a few ways to derail this practice. For starters, sit your child down and explain why nail biting is unhealthy. Try not to scold. Relay your message in a matter-of-fact tone so as not to make it a hostile situation for your child. Believe it or not, criticizing your child can actually make matters worse. Keep the nails clipped back and painted. Make your child's fingers a source of pride. Create an incentive.