Sofia's toes

It was dark outside and approaching bedtime for the children. Everyone was feeling worn out and their moods were erratic. I was trying to avert a tantrum from Sofia and in an effort to avoid yelling and use distraction, I told her she had some stuff (i.e. sock lint) between her toes. I didn't realize at the time that I would still be reeling from the consequences of that single statement. Now, Sofia "checks her toes" compulsively, multiple times a day. Without warning, she'll stop whatever she's doing, sit down and say, "I have to check my toes". And yes, she will check between every single toe. It's gotten to the point at daycare that she has to keep her socks on to curb the behavior. We usually just shake our heads at home because trying to convince her it's not necessary has proved to be futile.

We've had discussions with Sofia about this. You check once a day and only at home. That didn't stop her from checking her toes 3 times at her gymnastics class. It's comical and I know it will pass. I just want it written that I didn't mean for this to happen! I was only trying to distract her from a tantrum!