How to Stop a 20 Month Old From Spitting

Toddlers are both impulsive and infinitely curious. As a result, they may engage in behaviors that you find troubling, such as hitting the cat or biting their siblings or spitting at you. In most cases, their intention is not malicious. Your 20-month-old may pull the cat's tail because he wants to see what will happen. He may bite his sister because he doesn't know how else to handle his frustration when he can't get the toy he wants. He may spit at you because it gets a reaction out of you -- even a negative one. Getting your toddler to stop spitting will require consistency and a lot of patience.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn why your 20-month-old may be spitting. Dr. Jim Sears says that your toddler could be mimicking an older child or adult in your household. She may be doing it to practice her new "skill." More likely, she may be doing it because it gets a reaction from you. Once you understand the reason, you can address the problem.

    • 2

      Ignore the behavior. If your toddler is spitting to get a reaction from you, then ignoring the habit may be the best way to nip it in the bud. When she spits, just walk away. Do not get angry or show annoyance. Be firm and say something like "We don't spit" or "Spitting is not nice."

    • 3

      Make sure no adults or older children spit in front of her. If anyone in your family has the habit, make sure they know it is not acceptable. Your toddler will imitate those around him, so if he doesn't see others doing it, he may stop himself.

    • 4

      Give her another activity to divert her attention. Parents.com says that toddlers often act out because of boredom. If your child is feeling restless, divert her attention to a fun game or a toy. You could also go outside and let her run around a bit or play chase together.

    • 5

      Remove her from the situation. Parents.com says that by taking your toddler aside to a quiet corner or room, you can focus her attention on you. Make eye contact with her and use a firm voice to explain why the behavior is not acceptable. Be consistent and react in the same way each time she spits.

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