Somewhere between one and three years old, toddlers tend to start a biting habit. Typically, this behavior develops because it is one of the few means of communication available to a toddler. But not all children have the biting habit. Some of them shove, hit, pinch or grab. This might be just as bad!
Another reason that toddlers bite is that they feel frustrated because their motor and communication skills are so limited at this time.
It can seem funny for a young toddler to see his mommy suddenly bolt upright or for one of her playmates to begin crying. Another reason for biting is that the toddler is teething or because they just think everything should go in their mouth so why not someone’s arm? Sometimes the problem is something as simple as hunger.
What means can you use to help your child learn not to bite? It has to be completely understood that biting is bad behaviour and can hurt others. Help them to understand that other kids feel pain when your little one bites them. Be sure to let your toddler know that biting is not allowed, that it's wrong, and that it makes you unhappy.
If you think that your little one is biting out of frustration, help your toddler find another way to communicate that they're having a hard time. Even though teaching English seems to be a monumental task at this time, most toddlers can be taught words that are right for certain situations.
For instance, "You have to let daddy know that you need something, but not by biting." Or “Show mommy what you need, but don’t bite. You’ll hurt her if you bite, and I know you would never want to hurt mommy." This might induce a sense of shame for their actions, and they may think twice the next time before biting someone.
As parents, you shouldn't let biting become a big issue. This will be true for any type of behavior that you want to discourage. Gently but firmly tell the toddler that there is no biting allowed, that it is wrong and that it hurts all sorts of people – both big and small.
Visit Toddlers Now for more great tips on raising a little one.
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