Toddlers and young children still discovering the world may use their mouths to investigate new objects. However, past 3 years old, biting and mouthing behavior usually subsides. Yet, some young children continue to bite siblings and adults, sometimes through anger or frustration. In many cases, you can help to stop this behavior in the way you react and deal with your child's biting.
Exploration and Teething
Very young children may find that chewing on anything within their reach helps relieve pain from teething. Try giving a teething child a teething biscuit or a clean chew toy. This phase usually passes. Similarly, toddlers often go through a period of biting as they start to explore the world. They're not yet familiar with what tastes good, what they should put in their mouths, or what they should avoid. You can help your child understand what not to bite by taking objects or fingers from her mouth when she tries to bite them.
Socializing and Attention
Young toddlers lack the language skills to explain what they want or to introduce themselves to other children. According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, this often manifests itself as biting. For example, a toddler may bite another child simply to say hello and announce his presence. As children get a little older, they may start to use biting to attract attention if they feel ignored. If your child frequently bites for attention, avoid giving him attention for the biting, but become attentive when he asks politely or uses his hands instead of his mouth.
Frustration and Defense
Stressed, frustrated or angry children may bite more often. Children around the age of 2 have new found independence, but cannot exert their influence on a situation. For example, a toddler may want an ice cream, but you say no. In response, the child may throw a tantrum -- which can include biting. Giving her too much attention as a result of a the biting can result in future incidents. However, sometimes children may bite if you're overly physical or overpowering. To a toddler it can be intimidating seeing a larger person come in and pick her up if she doesn't want to move.
Seeking Help
Most children grow out of biting. However, if your child still bites regularly beyond 3 years old you should speak to your doctor, according to experts writing on the Clearinghouse on Early Education and Parenting website. In a small number of cases, biting can indicate a more complicated developmental problem. For example, mild autism or even sensory problems such as hearing difficulties or sensitive nerves might trigger biting behavior. If you're worried about your child's behavior always seek medical advice.
