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Biting in Child Care

This guide provides early educators with simple, effective strategies for managing biting in the classroom. It explains common reasons young children bite and offers clear steps to prevent biting incidents, such as:

  • Teaching children better ways to express emotions
  • Watching children closely during busy times
  • Working and communicating with families

Using these approaches, early educators create a safer and calmer learning environment for all children.

Visit the Documents, Forms, and Policies page to download a sample biting policy for early care and education programs.

Classroom Strategies and Resources for Biting in Child Care

1. Identify and Reduce Triggers

  • Watch for patterns: Use tools like the ABC chart (Antecedent-Behavior-Consequence) to track when and why biting happens.
  • Avoid over stimulation: Keep play areas calm and not too crowded. Rotate toys and use signs like “two friends only” to limit how many children play in one spot.
  • Make changes smoother: Use picture schedules, songs, or countdowns to help children get ready for transitions like cleanup or snack time.

2. Teach Social and Emotional Skills

  • Show how to share and take turns: Use puppets or role-play to teach children how to play nicely and talk to each other.
  • Talk about feelings: Help children name emotions like “mad” or “frustrated” so they can express themselves with words. Early educators can wear a lanyard with happy, sad, mad, or frustrated facial expressions so children can easily identify and express how they are feeling.
  • Give better choices: Teach children to say things like “stop” or “I need help” instead of biting. Create a cozy corner with pillows, books, or sensory toys where children can calm down.

3. Watch Closely During Risky Times

  • Place staff smartly: Keep teachers near children who might bite, especially during busy times like transitions or group play.
  • Use small groups: Put children into smaller groups for activities so teachers can offer attention and prevent problems.
  • Help with transitions: Use calming activities or assign a “transition buddy” to help children move from one routine to another.

4. Build a Calm and Predictable Space

  • Stick to routines: Post a daily schedule with pictures and go over it each morning so children know what to expect.
  • Set clear rules: Use simple rules and visual reminders to help children understand expectations.
  • Offer sensory tools: Give children who bite for sensory reasons things like chewable toys or sensory bins to meet their needs safely.

5. Work Together with Families

  • Communicate with parents: Share what you see and what is working in the classroom.
  • Work together: Make sure home and school are using the same strategies to stop biting.
  • Be kind and supportive: Let families know biting is a normal part of growing up, and work together to make a plan if it keeps happening.
  • Be familiar and knowledgeable of local resources: Should the biting persist, a referral to local resources such as early intervention, a developmental pediatrician, or a child behavioral specialist could help.

Other Resources:

References:

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