I have a biter!

Hi All,
One of my sons is biting the other!!!! I have 20 month old boys. Does anyone else have this problem and what do you do about it? I was thinking of taking a toy away when he does it, but he isn't always holding a toy when he chomps on his brother. Ofcourse it doesn't help that my other son puts his finger into his brother's mouth--just to help the problem along!!! HELP!!! Thanks

 

I don't have twins, but my second son was a biter! From about 18 months he started it. It was almost his way of greeting other small children, before he could talk. I was horrified when it started!

Have you introduced the naughty step yet? This is putting him somewhere for time out until he calms down and apologises.

And have you tried 1-2-3 magic? You need to decide what you'll do on "3".

Both worked for my son. I'd also reward the "bitee" for NOT putting his finger in his brother's mouth.

All strategies involve removing positive attention when they behave badly, and rewarding good behaviour.

Good luck.

 

Sounds like my boys, exactly - right down to the finger in the mouth. It hasn't happened here for a few months, thankfully!

When Jacob would bite, he would get an immediate time-out. Time-outs have been very effective for us, overall. Some people have found them to be less effective, but for us that strategy works. I also found that Jcob would most often bite when he was frustrated AND teething. If they are teething, maybe try teething tabs, Motrin, or Baby Orajel to curb the pain and reduce the "mouthiness" that contributes to biting in a lot of kids.

Good luck, and don't worry - it is a phase that will pass! :hug:

 

Cooper just started biting this past weekend. We are attempting time outs. I will let you know how it goes. I look forward to other responses.