A Guide to Decreasing Biting Behavior in Young Children
Biting is a common behavior observed in toddlers, and while it may be a phase, managing it can be challenging for childcare providers. Understanding the reasons behind biting and employing evidence-based strategies can make a significant difference in curbing this behavior. In this guide, we'll explore effective ways to address and decrease biting behaviors in young children.
Understanding the Why: Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand why toddlers may resort to biting. Identifying the root cause is the first step towards finding an effective solution.
What are some common reasons why toddlers may bite?
Communication challenges, frustration, teething discomfort, and sensory overstimulation are just a few of the reasons why a toddler might bite. Toddlers and young children may not have developed adequate verbal skills to express their needs, frustrations, or emotions. Biting can be a way for young children to communicate when they are unable to express themselves verbally. When teething, biting provides counterpressure that can alleviate pain. While this is seen most often in infants, it could be a cause for biting in older toddlers as well. However, in my experience, teething is very rarely the cause of prolonged, problematic biting behavior. Overstimulation, however, is a cause of biting I see quite often.
Once we understand why a child is biting, we can begin to give them the tools they need to get their needs met in a better way.
Promote Effective Communication: Encouraging alternative means of communication is crucial in reducing biting incidents. Introduce simple communication tools such as gestures, basic sign language, and encourage the use of words. This is done BEFORE a child becomes overwhelmed or over-stimulated. Carpet time, songs, and meal times are optimal times of the day to teach these alternative communication means. By providing toddlers with alternative outlets for expressing themselves, childcare providers empower them to communicate their needs without resorting to biting.
Promote Social Skills: Biting can occur during social interactions when children are still developing their social skills. They may not yet understand how to navigate conflicts, share toys, or communicate effectively, leading to biting as a response to social challenges. Again, teach social skills in a low-stakes time such as through songs, engaging books, and stories.
Despite our best efforts, biting may still occur.
When biting does occur, the next best step in close Supervision and Redirection: Close supervision is key in preventing biting incidents. When staff knows that a child is prone to biting, be sure to keep a watchful eye on interactions between children and step in if you sense tension building. Redirect their focus to a different activity or guide them towards activities that may provide a distraction or sensory engagement.
Finally, ongoing Professional Development ensures that childcare providers receive training in child development and behavior management. Staying informed about the latest research and evidence-based practices will empower providers to address biting behaviors effectively.
Grounded Roots Family Development Center offers trainings for childcare providers. If your group would like help with effective, evidence-based behavior management techniques, contact us today!
Check out our FREE visual guide to decreasing biting behaviors here.
