How to Keep Your Child From Biting Other Children

By Jodi Beuder

Instructions

Step 1:
Take your child away from the child he bit immediately. Give special attention to the bitten child, using soothing and comforting words. Try to identify what the bitten child is feeling and express this: "That must really hurt; I can see why you are crying. I'm so sorry Johnny bit you, that must make you so sad." This method will show your child that he will not get attention for biting and that biting makes the child who was bit feel bad, and that child deserves comforting attention.
Step 2:
Have your child, the biter, assist the child whom she bit. Make your child watch and even help wash the bite mark. Have your child get a bandage and put it on the other child's "ouchy." Continue offering comforting words to the bit child: "Being bitten does not feel good." This step will help your child relate directly to the injured child and see that it was not a good thing to do.
Step 3:
Once you know your child is a biter, closer supervision is necessary--your child will tend to try and try again for the attention she is seeking. Keep a close eye on your child, and keep items around for him that could potentially stop a biting incident, such as a wet washcloth or a safe toy to chew. Use active listening skills, even if she isn't using words but instead using negative actions. For instance, try saying something like "I can see that Amy sat where you were trying to sit. It would be nice to give her your spot today to make her happy--tomorrow, you can have that spot on the rug." Show him the special toy if she shows any aggression that gives you that "red flag" that he might bite so he can see that this is the proper way to deal with his frustration.

Tips & Warnings

Biting at the toddler stage is very common, as it is a sensory learning response and method of communication. There are many reasons why children may bite and if it keeps happening, it is important for the caretaker to keep notes on what may have triggered the biting. Most important, keep trying these steps. Consistency will help the child learn that his biting is not acceptable. When the child has taken to other methods to communicate frustration or anger or whatever was triggering their biting, make sure to offer positive reinforcement and even rewards for his good behavior.

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