When Children Bite: How Parents and Teachers Can Work Together
When Children Bite: How Parents and Teachers Can Work Together
Biting is one of the most challenging behaviors that families and early childhood educators face - and it's also one of the most common among infants and toddlers. At Scribbles Learning Center, we understand that biting can be frustrating, embarrassing, and even concerning. But it's important to remember: biting is a typical stage of development, and with a team approach, it can be managed with care and consistency.
Why Do Children Bite?
Children bite for many reasons:
Teething: Sore gums can lead little ones to bite for relief.
Exploration: Young children explore the world with their mouths.
Frustration or lack of language: If they can't express their needs or feelings, biting may become a form of communication.
Overstimulation or excitement: A bite can be a reaction to overwhelming feelings.
Attention-seeking: Some children bite to get a response - even a negative one.
Understanding the why behind the behavior is the first step in helping a child learn better ways to cope and communicate.
How We Handle Biting at Scribbles Learning Center
When biting occurs, our staff responds immediately and calmly:
We care for the child who was bitten with comfort and first aid.
We address the child who bit with simple, firm language: "Biting hurts. We use gentle touches."
We observe and document the incident - noting triggers, timing, and behavior patterns.
We notify both sets of families - always keeping identities confidential - and provide support, not blame.
Our goal is to guide the child toward safer behavior in a nurturing, non-punitive way.
How Parents and Teachers Can Work Together
Partnership is key. Here's how families and educators can team up:
Stay Calm and Supportive
Biting doesn't mean a child is "bad." It's a behavior - not a character trait. Let's approach it as a developmental phase, not a personal failure.
Share Information
We'll communicate what we observe at school, and we encourage you to do the same at home. Are they teething more? Having sleep disruptions? Experiencing big emotions?
Reinforce Consistent Language
Use simple phrases both at home and school, like:
"Teeth are not for biting."
"You can use your words."
This helps reinforce expectations and builds understanding.
Offer Alternatives
We may use teething toys or sensory activities. At home, provide safe items to bite and encourage soothing strategies like hugs, deep breaths, or words.
Be Patient and Persistent
It may take time, but with consistency and support from both school and home, children learn to replace biting with more appropriate ways of expressing themselves.
At Scribbles Learning Center, we are here to help guide your child through every phase of development - even the tough ones. With open communication, empathy, and teamwork, we can support children in learning positive behaviors that help them grow socially and emotionally.
