Hair twiddling resulting in hair loss

[NappyValleyHippyCrack]

My daughter is 2.5 and often pulls/twiddles/curls her hair around her fingers. She does this mostly when tired or just relaxing. She also does it in bed before going to sleep.

I noticed a few days ago that her hair on one side is looking very thin and today whilst having a bit of a deep clean of her room I found lots of hair behind her bed and on the floor!

It's already such a habit for her, how the hell do I break it?

She's a strong willed little force of nature so just telling her probably won't cut it.
I doubt she'll entertain the idea of wearing gloves or mittens - it's trouble enough when it's cold. We've only just got her sleeping through most nights, I don't want to upset this new found rest for all of us.

Should I cut her hair? Even if I get I fringe put in she'll be able to pull it.

Help please!

[strawberrybubblegum]

DD does the same. Putting it into pleats for the night helps: she twirls the whole pleat around, so there isn't the damage. Also means you don't have to unpick dreadlocks in the morning!

[Floowho]

Could she have a bit of material to twiddle instead? Or maybe one of those hair clips with fake hair on it.