How to Stop Toddlers From Scratching

Your toddler may get frustrated easily and take out his anger by scratching others. It is your duty as a parent to teach your toddler proper behavior. You must remain calm and take steps to show your toddler that scratching or hurting others is never allowed. If you do this each time your toddler scratches someone, he will learn that scratching is not acceptable behavior.

Instructions

    • 1

      Tell your toddler he is wrong when he scratches you or someone else. You must be firm when you tell him. Don't yell at him, however. Stay calm and say something like, "No. You are not allowed to scratch. Stop scratching right now."

    • 2

      Restrain your toddler from scratching. If your toddler scratches another child, get her away from the child. If she is scratching you, hold her wrist gently but firmly and state again that she is not allowed to scratch. Hold onto your toddler's wrist until you feel her relax and calm down.

    • 3

      Show your toddler the effects of his scratching. Point out the scratch marks that he caused. If he scratched another child, bring him over to the child after he has calmed down. Tell him that he hurt the child. Comfort the child. Your toddler needs to realize that his actions caused someone pain.

    • 4

      Help your toddler identify his feelings without hurting others. Explain that you understand your toddler is angry, but scratching is never OK. Say something like, "I know Johnny took your toy, so you feel angry." You are showing your toddler that you understand his frustration while helping him put into words the emotions he is feeling. Tell him anger is not an excuse to hurt others.

    • 5

      Give your toddler a time-out. She is too young to be in time-out for long -- one minute for each year of age is sufficient. Place her on a chair away from toys and games. She must face the consequences of the scratching. Explain that she is in time-out because she was not behaving properly and scratched someone.

    • 6

      Redirect your toddler's focus when the time-out is over. Don't spend any more time talking about it. Get busy with a game or activity with your youngster and don't show any anger. Give your toddler a hug to show your love.

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