Dear Dorie, My 8-year-old son continues to lick his lips until they’re severely chapped — even to the point of a brown ring below the lip. In an attempt to stop the behavior, my husband is warning him that his lip is going to be permanently marked or affected. While I’m not particularly fond of this approach, I don’t have any other options. Any suggestions?
Chapped Child’s Mom Dear Mom, Lately, the dry weather has been brutal on the lips and skin. Young children aren’t aware that the burning sensation on their lips is related to this so they lick away for temporary soothing. I’m not a pediatrician, but common sense says increase the intake of fluids and go get lip balm, preferably not petroleum-based as it can add to the dryness.
Another thing to consider is the repetitive oral motion. More than likely, this is the behavior that is bothering your husband. Nail biting brings out the worst in most parents, and this is something similar. If you think this is the case, mention it to your son. Provide some oral alternatives (sugar free lollipops, for example) and repetitive motion options (yo-yos, squeeze balls, etc.).
As far as the spouse scare tactic — anyone remember the warning: “Don’t cross your eyes or they’ll stay like that?” Eight-year-olds are pretty savvy. Tell your husband that if he keeps trying to scare him like that, his relationship is going to be permanently marked. Good luck. (Dorie Meek is director of the Infant & Family Support Program, provided by Saint John’s Health Center in partnership with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Meek answers questions concerning children ages birth to 5 years old. Submit your questions to “Dear Dorie” at, or call (310) 452-6132; fax (310) 452-6392).
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on February 22, 2005. Read the original PDF.