Step 3. Teach a New Behavior to Replace the Biting
If your toddler is teething, she's probably biting because of sore gums. In that case, offer something appropriate to bite on: such as a frozen juice bar, a hard plastic teething ring, or toy to relieve the discomfort.
Kids often bite because they haven't developed the verbal skills to communicate their needs or frustrations. Identify what skill your child lacks, and then teach a more appropriate way to respond that will replace the urge to bite. Practice the new skill together, until he can successfully use it on his own. One youngster bit because he didn't know how to say he wanted a turn. Once his dad recognized the problem, he taught his son to say: "It's your turn, then it's my turn." The biting quickly stopped. If your child has trouble verbalizing feelings or needs, teach him to say: "I'm getting mad." Or: "I want to play." Remember to let him know how proud you are when he uses good control.
Step 4. Anticipate Biting Behavior as the Best Prevention
If your child has developed a pattern of biting, then supervise those play times closely. You can then immediately step in and stop your biter before it happens. Put your hand gently over his mouth firmly saying: "You may not bite. Use your words to tell what you need." Then show how: "I want a turn." Sometimes you can distract your child from the situation: "Would you like to play with the clay or blocks?" You may have step in a few times before the biting is stopped, so watch closely then intervene pronto.
The most important part of this Mommy Secret to learn is that kids usually bite because they lack the ability to handle their frustrations. It's up to us to help find better ways to get their point across.
Michele Borba, Ed.D. is a mom of three, a former teacher, and renowned educational consultant who has presented workshops to one million parents and teachers worldwide. Dr. Borba is the author of 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know: Getting Back to Basics and Raising Happy Kids (Jossey-Bass, April 2006).She is a frequent guest on Today, The Early Show, The View, and Fox & Friends. She is also the award-winning author of over 20 books including Parents Do Make a Difference, Don't Give Me That Attitude!, No More Misbehavin', and Nobody Likes Me, Everybody Hates Me. Dr. Borba is an advisory board member for Parents. For more strategies and tips visit www.simplemommysecrets.com.
(c) 2006 by Michele Borba www.simplemommysecrets.com
