#asktheexpert my baby is 16 month old and she bites me daily in the night

A. It's not uncommon for toddlers to bite, especially during the night, as they explore their environment and express their emotions. Here are some possible reasons for your 16-month-old biting and strategies to manage this behavior: Possible Reasons for Biting 1. Teething: At this age, your child may be experiencing discomfort from teething, leading her to bite as a way to relieve that discomfort. 2. Exploration: Toddlers often use their mouths to explore new sensations. Biting might be a part of this exploration process. 3. Attention-Seeking: If she notices that biting gets a strong reaction from you, she may do it for attention. 4. Communication: Young children often lack the verbal skills to express their feelings, so they might resort to biting when frustrated or upset. 5. Comfort or Soothing: Biting might be a way for her to soothe herself, especially if she is tired or in need of comfort. Strategies to Manage Biting 1. Set Clear Boundaries: Gently but firmly tell her that biting is not acceptable. Use simple language, like “No biting, it hurts.” 2. Redirect Behavior: Offer her a teething toy or something safe to bite on. This can help relieve her discomfort while steering her away from biting you. 3. Positive Reinforcement: Praise her when she expresses herself without biting. Encourage her to use words or gestures instead. 4. Establish a Bedtime Routine: A consistent and calming bedtime routine may help reduce anxiety or discomfort that could lead to biting during the night. 5. Monitor Triggers: Pay attention to when she bites and look for patterns. Understanding triggers can help you anticipate and address them proactively. If the biting continues or escalates, consider discussing it with your pediatrician for additional strategies and support. They can help assess any underlying issues that might be contributing to her behavior.