How Do You Discipline A Child Who Bites?
Biting is a common occurrence in children 1 to 2½ years old, with the occurrences usually lowering when the child learns how to talk and verbalize. Biting can be used as a form of communication, letting you know that they are anxious, tense or want attention. Stopping this behavior from the first incidence is vital. A child will usually modify his or her behavior if there is no reinforcement given. Look the child in the eye. Clearly and firmly state, “No biting.” Place the child down safely in a timeout, one minute for each year of age, and walk away without giving them any eye contact or attention until their timeout is finished. Not reinforcing the behavior is a key to stopping this behavior from becoming a habit. If you are out of the home, look the child in the eye, clearly state, “No biting,” then remove the child from the situation without giving attention or eye contact. Give the injured child plenty of attention. Giving the attention to the injured child instead will make the b
