Lessons for Toddlers About Biting

When your child first bites someone, you may be upset and disappointed. But it's actually a common behavior in toddlers, especially those between the ages of 1 and 2, whose language skills aren't fully developed, according to KidsHealth.org. They may bite to express frustration or to try to get attention. There are several ways you can teach your child that biting another person is wrong.

  1. Ignore the Biter

    • If your child bites someone, the first thing you should do is direct your attention to the person who has been bitten, especially if it is a child, according to KidsHealth.org. Directing your attention to the biter may give him the attention he is seeking and could reinforce the negative behavior. Instead, comfort the victim, wash the injury and apply ice if needed. If your child is trying to get your attention, he will realize that biting someone isn't the right way to get it.

    Things to Say

    • Your child might be biting because she doesn't know how else to express herself. Teaching her a few phrases that are appropriate for her age may help. For example, if you notice she acts out when she's mad, teach her to say, "I'm mad." Tell her to remind herself that "biting is only for food." Be consistent in teaching these phrases, and keep them short and easy to remember.

    Show Him How it Feels

    • If your child knows that biting hurts, he may begin to realize why he shouldn't do it. Dr. William Sears, at AskDrSears.com, recommends pressing your child's teeth into his own arm to show him what it feels like. Tell him that "biting hurts." Try to do this soon after he bites someone else so that he will begin to understand how he made the other person feel.

    When Biting is OK

    • Turn a lesson about biting into a fun game by asking your child to tell you when biting is acceptable. Show her a food item like an apple and ask, "Is it OK to bite an apple?" Get excited when she says yes. Then show her your arm and ask, "Is it OK to bite my arm?" If she says no, praise her and let her know how smart she is.

    Teachable moments

    • Find opportunities, other than the moment after he has bitten someone, to teach your child biting is wrong. The more he hears it, the more the message will stick with him. If you see animals biting each other, tell your child they bite because they aren't able to talk. Ask him what the animals should say to each other. Find books that address biting and read them with your child.

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