Children bite for various of reasons. Whether in infants, toddlers, or preschoolers, biting is not unusual behaviour for children to exhibit.
Here are some reasons why children bite:
1) Child is teething
2) Child cannot communicate with words
3) Child is seeking attention
4) Child needs oral stimulation
5) Child is defending his-/herself
Here is how we as adults can help:
– Avoid giving the child who bit a lot of attention.
– Explain in a clear voice, “Biting hurts. We don’t bite people. We only bite food!”
– If possible, have the child who bit apply ice to the child who was bitten to let them see the consequence of their action.
– Watch the child for signs of feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and provide an appropriate outlet.
– Provide cold rags or teething rings for toddlers to chew, or a quiet place for older children to de-stress. Most children outgrow biting within a few incidents.
– Remain calm and consistent in dealing with the behaviour.
