Eating of non edible substances like stones,dirt,paint flakes,pencil lead etc is called pica.its a common condition in under 5 children who are deficient in iron.these children are anemic -they have iron deficiency anaemia.they might also be having worms in their tummy. They should be given deworming agents like albendazole and then started on iron after getting a blood test to prove iron deficiency.important thing is that these kids might be deficient in calcium and vitamin Dalso so better get tested for all of these.

Eating of non-edible substances like stones, dust, chalk is called as PICA. Mainly occurs due to iron deficiency.n is.common in age group 2-6yrs. Give.some.deworming medicine and iron medicine for 3mnths. Also change in diet needed with inclusion of incrased iron containing foods.

Hello there.  I can understand your concern.  Its called pica. You have to take care of the child that such things are not so easily accessible.  Give a syp. A to z 5ml once a day after food for a month.  Consult a pediatrician in person for further evaluation and management.  Best regards. Dr. Anil kumar jain. Bangalore.