Just about every child has bit but whether or not they should be classified as a biter is another thing. In daycares studies have proven that around half of the children have been bitten about three times a year. So biters are common.
Biting can come in different stages. The first stage is when the teeth are erupting from the gums. This is when your toddler will bite to make their gums feel better. This should be done on a rattle or a teething ring. If while breastfeeding your baby tries to bite, remove your baby and set them down in a safe spot. When an infant gets a negative response from their mother they will soon stop biting.
About the time that your toddler has their first birthday is when they have their second stage of biting. They may bite to show their excitement. Sometimes typical routines can help. At this time when your toddler tries to bit you should respond firmly every time and it should stop almost immediately.
At the age of two year your toddler will probably start to bite again. Your toddler bites at this time to show that they want to be independent. If your toddler bits at this stage be certain that you give your child a time out and make sure that you explain that being bitten hurts. Teach your toddler commutation skills that they may be lacking. Occassionally healthy routines will be helpful. After your toddler has the skills that are needed to commutate the biting should stop.
Be sure to watch your toddler closely if they are going through a biting phase. The best thing to do at this stage is to acknowledge the good behaviour. Another good tip is to offer something for your toddler to chew on. Just like normal routines, usually. If you catch your toddler biting you need to immediately respond with a firm toned voice and put your toddler on a time out.
