Biting, Hitting, and other common misbehaviors

Biting and hitting are obviously signs of aggression; but they
are also signs of frustration. Words don’t come easily for toddlers below 2 years, and hitting may
sometimes seem to be the only way they can express their frustrations. Parents should understand
such behavior as a form of ‘communication’ and try to understand what is really going on in their
children’s lives.

Here are some suggestions to help control your kids’
behavior:

• Stay Calm: Don’t respond with yelling and hitting your children – you will
  only exacerbate the situation.
• Avoid lectures: Toddlers are not capable of cognitively
  understanding the problem of hitting others. Firmly say “No bite!”
• Show them it hurts:
  Let your children know that it feels real bad when they act aggressively
• Teach them
  control: Show them alternative ways of dealing with their feelings – like talking them out or
  counting to ten before they break out
• Solve the problem: Separate the victim of
  biting/hitting from the situation. Administer proper first aid if required (see below). Don’t ask
  for explanations from the aggressor
• Be realistic and appreciative: Show faith in your
  children’s natural goodness and their ability to change for the better

A short guide to treating Human Bites:

• Clean the
  hurt area with soap and water Cover the area immediately with a sterile bandage
• If the
  child’s skin is broken, it is time to visit the doctor

Disclaimer: The above information is commonsense reflection drawn
from general experience. If you are looking for expert medical advice, please consult your
doctor.