I’m not sure what to suggest, but I hope you’ve found a solution.

I use to cut them when the kids where asleep

See if you can go to a department store and get yourself good comfortable toe clippers suitable for a child so it will cut with one clip. With toes you have to cut straight across ( not around the toes ) so there is less chance of ingrown toenails which can lead to infection . It maybe the fact the your son needs to keep still and he can’t , so perhaps talk to his doctor as there maybe another issue and not just being scared of the clippers.

You’re going have to sort this asap, he can’t go long with not having his nails cut. He’s 8, surely you can reason with him at that age? Maybe let him do it himself even

try to distract him or treat it like a fun game. Wait until he is truly asleep and get in there

Have a toe cutting difficult child myself, the podiatrist is my best bet for it, as was worried about with the squirming might do some damage .

Thank you for your reply. will be looking into that this week.

I agree; look into getting a podiatrist to assist with cutting toe nails. Also ask your GP about supports too.

See your GP and get a medical health plan this allows treatment for physio, podiatry and many other professionals bulk billed to Medicare. Podiatry is the safest, quick and the only safe way to handle feet/toes (some even do home visits).