Responding to Biting with Confidence and Care
Blooming Prep Parent Resource Series
Young children are still developing language, emotional regulation, and social skills. While biting can be upsetting for families, it is a common developmental behavior often seen in infants, toddlers, and young preschoolers. Our goal is to understand the underlying cause of the behavior while helping children learn positive ways to express their needs, emotions, and frustrations.
Why Do Young Children Bite?
Children may bite for a variety of reasons, including teething discomfort, sensory needs, curiosity, frustration, limited language skills, seeking attention, feeling overwhelmed, or difficulty expressing emotions.
Common Reasons for Biting
- Teething and oral sensory needs
- Limited communication skills
- Strong emotions such as frustration, anger, or excitement
- Curiosity and exploration
- Seeking attention
- Feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated
- Self-protection during conflicts
Preventing Biting: Proactive Strategies for Families
- Maintain predictable routines and schedules.
- Support emotional regulation through calming activities.
- Provide appropriate teething and sensory materials.
- Teach feeling words and simple communication strategies.
- Model positive social interactions and problem-solving skills.
- Reinforce positive behaviors with encouragement and praise.
How to Respond When Biting Occurs
Stay calm and respond consistently. Use a firm but gentle tone to communicate that biting is not acceptable. Comfort the child who was bitten, then help the child who bit identify their feelings and practice alternative ways to communicate.
Building Communication Skills
Many biting incidents occur because children do not yet have the language to express their needs. Encourage children to use simple phrases such as ‘My turn,’ ‘Stop,’ ‘Help please,’ or ‘I don’t like that.’ Sign language and visual support may also be helpful for younger children.
Working Together
Consistency between home and school is one of the most effective ways to support positive behavior. When families and teachers work together, children receive clear, predictable guidance and support.
What to Avoid
- Labeling a child as a ‘biter’
- Yelling or shaming
- Physical punishment
- Responding with anger
- Giving excessive attention to the behavior itself