This post may contain affiliated links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure statement here.
This blog post is all about biting in toddlers.
Biting in toddlers is a common but frustrating behavior. If you're a daycare provider or parent, you've likely had to deal with this behavior.
While biting is part of child development, understanding why it happens and how to stop it effectively will make all the difference in your toddler's behavior.
I'm breaking down practical strategies and tips to successfully stop the biting!
BITING
Why Do Children Bite
As a parent of a biting toddler, I'm sorry. I know it feels very disheartening and that you've done something wrong. Those feelings are not true; you are an amazing parent, and this is normal behavior.
There are many reasons why a toddler is biting. Here are some common reasons why toddlers bite. Once you understand the reason your toddler is biting you can help prevent biting.
- sensory seeking
- lack of oral communication
- teething pain
- attention seeking
- excitement
- overstimulated or overwhelmed
- frustration
- learned behavior
- sense of control
- overtired
How To Stop A Child From Biting At Daycare
It's normal for children to behave differently at home and daycare. However, it's imperative to work as a team to stop the behavior quickly.
Stopping a child from biting at daycare will require a proactive approach and consistency.
First, you need to understand why the biting is happening. Attempt to take notes to include the time of the day and what was happening when it occurred. These notes will help with why the behavior is happening and how to stop it.
Once you understand the why, it's time to teach other communication and coping skills.
Set firm boundaries and consequences, but be consistent! Positive discipline can still be applied to this behavior. Not sure what that is, check this blog post out, What Is Positive Discipline And How To Apply It.
Redirect the child to a good choice and supervise closely, "teeth are not for biting our friends, you can chew on this teething toy."
Reinforce positive behavior and choices. Especially during a time when the toddler would normally bite but chose a different path.
Model good behavior through role play, reading books, songs, and videos.
Keep the communication open between daycare and parents. Celebrate the small wins!
How To Prevent Biting
I sound like a parrot but the first part of this equation is understanding the why. Once you have a solid understanding of why the toddler is biting then you can work towards preventing biting.
Do you see a pattern of biting when the toddler is tired? Set nap time back about thirty minutes earlier and then reevaluate the behavior.
Or does it seem to happen before meal times? Try adding in a small snack between meals to see if that helps.
Is it a lack of oral communication that is cueing the frustration and biting? Teach the children other forms of communication. Simple terms such as help, please, my turn, or up. You can easily teach the child sign language for these terms as well!
Have a teething toddler? Provide teething toys in all of their favorite areas to play.
Is the toddler just wanting everything that the other children have? Lean in on modeling how to share with friends through play, books, and reinforcing positive choices!
Be patient. Be firm yet kind. Stay consistent; this, too, shall pass.
This blog was all about biting in toddlers.