How to Stop Your Child from Biting

Many parents experience a great deal of frustration when it comes to biting. It can be difficult to choose a method and stick to it, and this is what every child needs. They need a sense of predictibility when it comes to discipline. Regardless of whether you choose this method or another, the punishment should always not only be the same, but fit the crime. Consistency is the key to sucessful discipline! Do not try one method once or twice, then decide it doesn't work, because young children need repetition to build a memory. If you try one method several times, such as for two weeks, and it doesn't have an effect, you may need to make a change.

If you are like me, and feel it's wrong to hurt or bite your child, then this is the solution for you! Just remember, it may take a few tries before any discipline method takes effect. I think that's the one thing I wish others had told me about parenting, is that you have to be consistent! You also have to come to an agreement between both parents as to how you will react to different situations, as otherwise you may have a confused child on your hands! Try to communicate with your partner before the need arises!

When your child bites, put him or her on the floor sitting up (if they are able to sit!) and look at anything but them. Pay no attention to your child for at least a minute or two, but no longer than a few minutes. Then when you look back at them, say in a firm voice, "We do not bite." Then act normally. Most babies learn after only two or three times of this. You must do this every time they bite, whether it is a painful bite or just a little nibble!

Babies and toddlers hate being ignored. They crave our attention. It is important that we give our children attention when they are behaving, not when they are not behaving. While it's true that even the most attentive parents can have difficult children, it is important to remember to give each child your undivided attention while they are being good for at least several minutes a few times a day. Try to limit your reactions to misbehavior so that the child doesn't feel rewarded by your negative attention.

Occasionally when biting occurs there is an underlying cause, especially with toddlers and older children. In these cases it may be helpful to try to figure out why your older child is biting. Often in the early school years, biting may be related to boredom, fear, or it may be in retaliation for something another child did to them. If your older child has bitten someone, wait until you are both calm to address it. Then discuss with your child why it happened, and remind them that it is not okay to hurt other people.

Biting your child back is wrong. It not only hurts them, but it shows them that it is okay for you to do it to them. Most babies are too young to understand that what hurts them also hurts you. They have awhile to go before they can understand cause and effect. Most of all, children learn by example. As parents we need to remember that, and set the best example we can!