Advice for parents of toddlers
who kick or bite.
Do you have a toddler with antisocial habits? Get your teeth into this and teach
them to kick the habit.
What To Do About A Toddler Biting And
Kicking by :
Jackie G. Maxwell
While it can be embarrassing, frustrating, and
sometimes frightening, for the most part, this type of behavior by toddlers is a
normal phase that they all pass through. It's a part of their growth and
development, and usually results from a frustration at not being able to express
themselves, whether it is wanting a toy, or wanting your attention.
The phase can hit anywhere from 14 months and up, but tends to be more
noticeable when the child is exposed to others, which could mean in a childcare
center, or social setting. Even children who are linguistically advanced for
their ages, are still children, and will be prone to the same frustrations as
others.
The first rule of thumb, is not to overreact. While there are different schools
of thought on spanking, this is not a situation where it is appropriate, and can
only add fuel to the fire. A time-out is in order, generally about two minutes
worth on a chair where they can't stomp on the floor, or kick anything. This
also gives you a chance to calm down. During the time-out, do not speak to them,
but do explain when you sit them down, that this time-out is because they have
bit/hit/kicked someone and that is not allowed.
When the time is up, explain to them again, that the behavior is not acceptable,
because it hurts other people. It's not of much use to ask them how they would
feel if someone bit them, since a toddler is unlikely to be able to relate cause
and effect, then apply it to themselves. But a non-confrontational "punishment",
and explanation, tells them what they did wrong, and what will happen if they do
it again.
If they go right out and repeat the action, take them back for another time-out.
Depending on the age of the child, you can explain the concept of apologies, and
why they should make one. Use positive reinforcement by praising them for an
apology (even if it comes as a kiss), or for going right out and giving their
toy to the child they kicked.
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Source:
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