Parent to Parent: Biting

Jessica Statkiewicz, mom
"He randomly bites. He bites when he's mad, he bites after kicking and hitting. Sometimes, he just walks up and bites."

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, biting is common during the toddler years, affecting one in ten children.

Dr. Peter Greenspan, pediatrician
"Usually under a year, kids are biting because of teething or oral experimentation. But usually when you get into the toddler range from about 1 to 3 it usually happens when children are frustrated, angry or sometimes even excited."

Pediatricians recommend that moms and dads speak firmly to their child, telling them biting is not allowed.

Dr. Peter Greenspan, pediatrician
"I think using words is important, because it sends a message to the child that language is the medium through which we communicate."

Experts say time outs are also effective, but they recommend if the problem lasts beyond the age of 3, parents may need to seek help from a professional.

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