Although biting is not considered "wrong" in the sense that one in ten children under 2 years of age does it, overall it is a disturbing and potentially harmful behavior that parents and educators should discourage from the very first occurrence. If a child bites, don't worry and think about the reason, i.e. what the child experienced just before this incident. Understanding why young children bite can help you curb this aggressive behavior and teach your child positive ways to express their feelings. Young children may bite for a variety of reasons. Determining the reason why a child bites in a particular case will help you develop appropriate behavior and control methods. 1. "Experimental Bite" An infant or small child may try to bite the mother's chest or shoulder. When this happens, adults should immediately and clearly explain to the child that he should not bite people. “No,” said sharply, is the appropriate response. These "experimental biters" simply want to touch, smell and taste other people to learn more about the world around them. Their muscles are developing and they must experiment. Provide a variety of play areas and colorful toys to stimulate children during this developmental stage. This type of child biting may also be motivated by toothache. Offer appropriate things for children to chew on: frozen bagels, a cold large carrot, or a special, safe rubber ring designed for chewing while teething. 2. The Frustrated Biter Some children lack the necessary skills to cope with situations such as getting an adult's attention or wanting another child's toy. Even though the child may not have intended to harm another person, adults should react with disapproval. Punish immediately first. Then explain to the child who bites that biting hurts other people and that you don't allow it. You can help frustrated children who bite by teaching them appropriate gestures to express their feelings or get what they need. Praise children when they make progress in their attempts. Also, watch for signs that your child is in a bad mood. Identifying potential conflict can help you prevent a bad incident. 3. "Defensive biter" Some children, feeling that they are in danger, bite in self-defense. They can be overwhelmed by their environment and their bite is a means of regaining control of the situation. In this case, use the intervention methods already mentioned, and assure the child that his rights and property (toys, clothes) are safe. Children may be victims of a situation such as a recent parental divorce, the death of a grandparent, or one where mom returns to work after maternity leave. A biting child, under the influence of one of these situations, may require additional attention and affection, especially if there is a risk of physical abuse at home or in the neighborhood. In any case, the bond between the child and the caregiver should be as warm and inviting as possible. 4. "Power Bites" Some children have a strong need for independence and control. Once they see a reaction to their biting, the behavior increases. Give your child choices during the day and reinforce positive social behaviors (such as expressing gratitude). If a child seeks attention when he is not misbehaving, he will not resort to aggressive behavior to feel a sense of personal power. Never hit or bite a child back!.