Many children go through an aggressive phase that can include biting. The National Association for the Education of Young Children estimated in 1996 that one out of ten toddlers engages in biting behaviors. Children with disabilities, such as autism and other autism spectrum disorders, continue to bite, and do not grow out of the biting phase. Young toddlers bite to express frustration when they are unable to communicate. Children with disabilities may continue this aggression, because they lack the communication skills needed to express their feelings.
Step 1
Remind your child of play rules before he is around other children, in order to prevent biting. Your child with disabilities may not remember rules, and you will need to remind him before each outing. Be sure to include biting as an unacceptable behavior. Also inform your child of any rewards if he plays with other children properly.
Step 2
Teach your child other ways to express frustration. Children with disabilities bite often as a form of communication. If your child cannot express himself by speaking, you can teach him sign language or use the computer to relay his needs. You can also use pictures or symbols if your child prefers.
Step 3
Reduce sensory distractions. Children with disabilities often become easily bothered by loud noises or bright lights. If you can determine any issues your child has with sensory distractions, you can reduce the distractions and prevent biting.
Step 4
Use behavioral interventions if your child bites. Reinforce any positive behaviors that your child has, especially when frustrated. For instance, if your child draws an angry picture when mad, instead of biting, provide your child with a specific reward.
Step 5
Speak to a behaviorist. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a well researched therapy that has been shown to be effective in children with disabilities. An ABA therapist can help you prevent biting by using specific interventions with your child.
Step 6
Schedule a visit with a psychiatrist. In some cases, your child may need medications to control biting behaviors. Some medications have been shown to reduce aggression in children with disabilities. However, research on this is still preliminary and should be used as a last resort. Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, has been the most researched for adults and children with aggressive behaviors. This medication has been effective in reducing aggression and irritability.
References
- At Health: Dealing with Biting Behaviors in Young Children
- Center for Effective Parenting; Biting; Kristen Zolten, et al; 1997
- Psychiatric Times; Behavioral and Pharmacologic Treatment of Aggression in Children With Autism; Craig A. Erickson, et. al; October 2005
- National Network of Child Care; Children with Disabilities or Special Needs; Lesia Oesterreich
