Biting is a common behavior in young children. As such, it occurs in every childcare and early childhood program. When children bite, it can be stressful for children and their caregivers. It’s important to understand that biting is a way that children attempt to communicate through their actions.
Why Do Young Children Bite?
Biting can happen for several reasons:
- Teething
- Overstimulation
- Frustration
- Impulsiveness
What To Do When Children Bite
When toddlers or preschool-aged children bite at home, we encourage families to first regulate themselves before helping regulate their child. When everyone is calm, use language to either advocate for the person who was bit or yourself. Give the child ideas of what they can do instead of biting, encouraging children to use words or actions instead. For example, “I don’t like it when you bite me. Ask me for help.”
Tips to keep the urge to bite at bay:
- Keep children engaged and busy with various toys, activities, and sensory experiences.
- Provide regular meals and snacks.
- Minimize stress when possible.
- Encourage children to communicate their feelings.
Little Dinos Don’t Bite by Michael Dahl
Teeth Are Not for Biting by Elizabeth Verdick
No Biting! by Karen Katz
At Kinderberry Hill, caring attention and comfort is focused on the child who was bitten. Our experienced childcare teachers offer additional support to the child who was bitten by encouraging their ability to self-advocate to their classmate. For example, if biting occurred because lining up to go outside was overstimulating, the teacher would coach, “Tell your friend, ‘I don’t like it when you bite me in line. Walk around me instead.’”
About Kinderberry Hill
Kinderberry Hill Child Development Center is a Reggio Emilia-inspired early learning program offering care and education for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-kindergarten children. We offer child-led curriculum, year-round outdoor classrooms, and more, ensuring that your child will have the very best start.
All Kinderberry Hill schools are now enrolling in all age groups, with full- and part-time scheduling available. Schedule a tour at one of our seven Minneapolis-St. Paul childcare centers today!
