How to get 18 month old to stop biting/hitting?

Question

My 18 month old recently started biting/hitting/pushing. I’ve yelled NO THANK YOU or put her in timeout but I am all out of ideas. She doesn’t stop. I am even getting reports of her doing it at daycare. She’s an only child so she doesn’t have anyone picking on her at home. Does anyone have any ideas? thanks!!

Answer

I would turn around and walk away. This will show that biting and hitting do not get your attention. I would also look for a pattern or triggers. Is she over stimulated or tired?

Answer

Well you aren’t supposed to put a child in time out/punish them at that age, they simply do not understand it. Gently say “no we do not bite/hit” and redirect them to something else. They are just figuring out emotions and don’t know how to control them. So instead of getting angry figure out why he’s frustrated. Try the best to redirect him after telling him no. He won’t do it forever and he will grow out of it eventually.

Answer

Do you notice a pattern? Is it only when teething, tired, etc? I noticed my son started doing it when he was overstimulated. When he does it, I just put him in his crib with some toys for him to have some down time. Now he has a routine of "quiet time" alone in his crib each morning and afternoon, and it has made a world of a difference. As for teething, he does it then too, and a dose of tylenol usually helps.

Answer

Bitting her forehead slightly or hitting her back helps.

How to get 18 month old to stop biting/hitting?

Let's Glow!

The Top Baby Tracker App: Embrace New Beginnings with Tender Care

The Top Fertility Tracker App: Your Path to Achieving Pregnancy

The Top Pregnancy App: Nurturing Your Journey to Motherhood

The Top Period Tracker for Empowering Your Menstrual Health Journey