Toddlers Biting - Make It Stop Quickly

By Jake Long

So, have you heard the solid advice (sarcasm there) that biting your child back will get them to stop biting you? Well, to end toddler biting, you are going to have to find something else. I heard that advice so much that I wanted to throw up. It wasn't what I wanted to teach him - so I looked for a better way.

Toddler Biting - It may be more than it appears. With toddlers it is hard to know exactly why they do what they do. But as a parent, that is your job - to figure it out! So put on your detective hat and get to work. Here are a few reasons that your child may be biting others:

* They wanted a toy.

* They were injured by another child.

* They wanted attention.

This list is just there to get you thinking and is by no means an extensive list of motives. That is what you need to get to - the motivation of your child. Once you have that, it will become much more clear as to what you need to do next.

Stay Focused On the Cause

The motivation is key. For example, if your child is biting someone for a toy, is it because they do not have the words to ask for the toy properly? If that is the case, you should consider talking to an expert locally that can help you see if their is a language delay. With early intervention you and your child can be much better off.

Talking Isn't Enough - You Need To Teach

This is a child we are talking about. You could talk until you are blue in the face and things would not necessary change. Teach your child what is expected. Give them a chance to practice over and over again. Show them that your method works. Do NOT let them get what they want when they bite. That only encourages the behavior.

Be Proactive With Positive Behaviors

Watch how your child is playing with others. Be aware of the warning signs of frustration, anger, hurt, or attention. If you see the situation brewing - intervene and change the situation. Give your child a hug. Tickle them for a bit - let them get the energy out of their system. Use substitution distraction - give them something else to focus on BEFORE it becomes a problem. - 31376

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