Health & Life

Why Do Children Bite and How Can Parents Respond?

Biting is a common habit among young children, and it can be a cause for concern for parents and caregivers. While it may be developmentally normal, it's important to address this behavior to prevent pain and potential harm to others. So, what can be done to curb this habit? Let's explore some effective strategies together!

Administrator

1 June, 2024

It’s common for some children to develop a biting habit at a young age, especially when they’re feeling unhappy. This behavior can become more dangerous as they start teething, leaving deep bite marks and even causing bleeding. Let’s explore the reasons behind this behavior and effective strategies to address it in this article.

1Understanding the Reasons for Biting in Different Stages of Development

Stage 1: 4 – 8 Months Old

During the teething phase, which typically occurs between 4 and 8 months of age, babies tend to bite more frequently. This is because the emerging teeth and gums can cause itching and discomfort, which they try to alleviate by biting.

Additionally, at this stage, babies’ tongues and mouths are highly sensitive, leading to increased biting, licking, and sucking behaviors. As a result, it can be challenging for parents to prevent biting during this period.

To reduce the frequency of biting, parents can try redirecting their child’s attention by offering teething toys or their favorite playthings designed for chewing.

Understanding the Reasons for Biting

Stage 2: 1.5 – 3 Years Old

At this stage, biting is often a result of inappropriate emotional expression. Children may bite when they’re feeling unhappy or frustrated, or as a way to communicate their desires if their mother cannot understand them.

It’s important to note that children at this age may not realize that biting is wrong, nor do they know how to express their emotions effectively when angry. Therefore, it’s crucial for parents to step in and correct this bad habit as early as possible.

Stage 3: After 3 Years Old

Some children may naturally reduce or stop biting others after they turn three. By this age, they have usually developed sufficient language skills to express their dissatisfaction or negative emotions verbally.

However, if a child continues to bite others after the age of three, it may indicate that the parenting methods employed during the earlier stages were not effective.

2What Should Parents Do If Their Child Bites?

If your child exhibits a biting behavior, consider the following strategies:

Immediately stop the behavior and explain that biting is not acceptable.
Check for injuries and seek medical attention if the bite is deep or bleeding.
Establish clear family rules and implement a system of rewards and consequences to discourage biting.
Seek professional help if the biting persists or becomes more frequent. A child psychologist can help identify the underlying causes and provide tailored solutions.

Strategies for Parents

Understanding the reasons behind children’s biting behavior and knowing how to respond are crucial for parents. We hope that the information provided will help you better care for your child and address any biting issues effectively.

Source: “Báo Phụ nữ” Magazine

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Frequently asked questions

Children may bite for various reasons, including teething, exploration, communication, self-defense, and attention-seeking. They may also bite when they are frustrated, angry, or overwhelmed.

Parents can respond to their child’s biting by remaining calm and firm, setting clear rules and consequences, providing positive alternatives, teaching empathy, and addressing any underlying issues. It’s important to supervise children closely and provide a safe environment to prevent biting and promote positive behavior.

When a child bites, parents should intervene immediately and firmly. Separate the children involved, ensure the safety of both children, and express disapproval of the behavior. Explain that biting hurts and is not acceptable, and provide consequences such as a brief time-out or removal of privileges. Offer alternatives like using words or gentle touches instead.

Parents can teach their children alternative ways to express themselves and manage their emotions. Encourage the use of words, role-play emotional scenarios, and provide safe chew toys during teething. Teach children to recognize and respect personal space, and model empathy by discussing feelings and demonstrating appropriate ways to handle conflicts.

To prevent biting, ensure children’s basic needs are met, including adequate sleep, nutrition, and emotional support. Provide age-appropriate supervision and create a safe environment with clear rules. Offer a variety of toys and activities to channel their energy positively. Encourage empathy by talking about feelings and helping them understand the impact of their actions on others.