#asktheexpert my son bites a lot, does not listen to us, tried giving chilly no reaction, please help how to stop this

Question

#asktheexpert  my son bites a lot, does not listen to us, tried giving chilly no reaction, please help how to stop this

Accepted Answer

If your toddler is biting others, here are some strategies to address and manage this behavior:

1. **Stay Calm:**
   - React calmly and avoid getting angry or aggressive. Toddlers often don't understand the impact of their actions.

2. **Teach Gentle Touch:**
   - Use simple language to explain that biting hurts and encourage gentle touches. Demonstrate appropriate behavior.

3. **Observe Triggers:**
   - Pay attention to situations that trigger the biting. Understanding the cause can help prevent future incidents.

4. **Supervise Play:**
   - Keep a close eye on your toddler during playtime to intervene quickly if needed.

5. **Teach Communication:**
   - Help your toddler express feelings verbally. Encourage them to use words to express frustration, anger, or other emotions.

6. **Positive Reinforcement:**
   - Praise and reward positive behavior. Reinforce sharing and taking turns.

7. **Provide Teething Solutions:**
   - If teething is a cause, offer teething toys or cold teething rings to soothe their gums.

8. **Time-Out:**
   - If biting continues, use a brief time-out to help them understand consequences. Be consistent but not punitive.

9. **Consult with a Professional:**
   - If the behavior persists, consider consulting with a pediatrician or child behavior specialist for guidance.

Remember, consistency and positive reinforcement are key in addressing biting behavior. Always prioritize the safety and well-being of all children involved.