Picking and Pulling Things Apart

My son is 7 and has recently started picking at his nails and pulling skin off to the point where they bleed. He also picks at scabs continuously and just tonight he was caught pulling paint off of a wall that we recently had painted professionally due to him picking paint off of it in the past. We also find small pieces of paper/garbage all over the floor that he rips off of various things such as toy boxes, etc.




Another thing he likes to pick at is erasers. We find tiny pieces everywhere. He's never been tested for SPD.

Do other kids with SPD exhibit this type of behavior? He does have other issues and symptoms of SPD. What sort of therapy would help him to stop this behavior?

He also breaks things often (toys, zippers, etc.).

Thanks in advance!



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Feb 23, 2022
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starstarstarstarstar 		I wonder why this hasn't been answered.
by: Anonymous

It's pretty obvious to me that this is a genuine "thing". My 6 year old does the same this. He has been diagnosed and has been in therapy. Although therapy has helped with many things this is not one of them.
Apr 02, 2021
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starstarstarstarstar 		Any answers yet?
by: Anonymous

My daughter has been picking at erasers for the last 7 to 8 years and it’s only getting worse. We have tried all kinds of sensory toys and other diversions but as soon as she sits down to work, which she loves to do, the erasers get picked apart. She is being held responsible for cleaning up her mess each day but the problem persists and none of her therapists have been able to offer any successfully helpful advice.
Mar 03, 2021
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starstarstarstarstar 		Solution??
by: Anonymous

Please tell me if you’ve found out how to help this and what is the root of it. Tshimko@yahoo.com
Jul 12, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		picking
by: Anonymous

I can tell you that lots of kids in first grade do this. More recess has helped somewhat, so maybe more activity for your child??

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