Aggressive behavior in children can be a big problem in home and daycare settings. It is important to make sure that children do not harm themselves, their caregivers or other children. Some children display more aggressive and violent behavior than others, such as hitting and biting, and stopping the behavior early is important. Aggressive behavior by age six is a predictor of further aggression in later life, according to Early Childhood News. Teaching young children how to prevent angry and aggressive outbursts can help create a safer society.
Step 1
Establish clear guidlines of expected behavior. Children need to know what is expected of them and the consequences they will face if they break the rules. Boundaries discourage aggressive behavior by telling children that it will not be tolerated. Always follow up to violations of the rules with the stated consequences; the consequences have no power if they are only an empty threat.
Step 2
Respond immediately to incidents of aggression. You and the child may both forget about the behavior if you wait to address it. Address inappropriate behavior in a calm, firm voice to convey the seriousness of the issue. Deal with the aggressive child privately whenever possible and avoid shaming them in the presence of other children.
Step 3
Teach children to stand up for themselves when another child is behaving aggressively toward them. Encourage the victims to tell the aggressor how the actions make them feel. Make sure that the victim knows that you do not tolerate the inappropriate behavior they received.
Step 4
Maintain consistency in the environment at home and daycare. Most children do not react well to change and prefer daily routines with little variation. Allowing more chaos and variability may result in more aggressive behavior, according to The Clearinghouse on Early Childhood Education and Parenting. Keep caregiver staff changes as minimal as possible. Enlist parents' help by explaining the expected rules and consequences so they may reinforce them and maintain consistency between home and caregiver. Find out any additional information about the child's home life that may be impacting her behavior.
Step 5
Teach children how to express their frustrations through more acceptable outlets. Children may resort to aggressive behavior, such as hitting or biting, when they do not know how to express their feelings. Model expected behavior using dolls or stuffed animals to act out situations in which a child may become aggressive, and demonstrate acceptable reactions. Give children examples of words to use, and help them identify their feelings.
Tips and Warnings
- Monitor the media children view and hear and limit exposure to violent programming. Early exposure to violent media can result in more aggressive behavior. Feed children a healthy diet with limited sugar and artificial colors and flavors.
- Refer the child to professional counseling if you witness serious signs of violence or aggression, such as harming animals, or if the child is withdrawn and does not form healthy attachments to you or other caregivers.
