Can toddlers start biting by copying other kids?

Yes. Toddlers often imitate behaviours they see in other children, including biting.

How long does the biting phase last for toddlers?

The biting phase usually lasts a few months and often decreases by age 3.

Have a Toddler who Bites? Here's What You Can Do About It

Toddlers' biting is more common than you might think, and it can be tricky to handle. At this age, children are still learning how to express feelings, communicate needs, and manage big emotions. They don’t always have the words to tell you when they’re frustrated, so biting can become their way of reacting.

You may notice biting happens during play with other kids, when they’re tired, or even when they’re teething. Sometimes it’s about testing boundaries or seeing how you respond. Understanding the reasons behind the behaviour is the first step to helping your toddler learn safer ways to communicate.

Why Do Toddlers Bite?

Toddlers bite for many reasons, and understanding why is the first step to handling it.

These are some common reasons:

Expressing emotions: They don’t yet have the words to say they’re angry, upset, or even excited, so they use biting instead.
Teething pain: Biting can soothe sore gums when teeth are coming in.
Exploring the world: Toddlers use their mouths to learn about the world, and sometimes that means biting toys, friends, or even you.
Feeling overwhelmed: Too much noise, activity, or tiredness can push them to bite.
Testing cause and effect: They’re curious to see what happens when they bite and how others respond.
Needing attention or space: Biting can be their way of saying they want attention or need distance.
Lack of language skills: If they can’t express what they want, biting might become their shortcut.
Need for oral stimulation: Some toddlers simply have a strong need to chew or bite, especially during teething.

How to Prevent Toddler Biting

Stopping biting starts with prevention. This is how you can prevent biting:

Watch for triggers: Notice when biting happens. Is it during a tantrum? When they’re tired or hungry? Does it always involve the same person or toy? Understanding these patterns helps you step in before a bite occurs.
Distract and redirect: If you see them getting worked up, shift their attention with a toy, a book, or even by moving to another room.
Offer alternatives: Teach your toddler other ways to handle situations. For example, if they’re upset because someone took their toy, show them how to say, “My turn, please,” or to come to you for help.
Encourage sharing: Sharing can trigger biting, especially in group play. Use a timer for turns or have enough similar toys so everyone can play.
Support communication skills: Help your toddler use words to show feelings. For example, say, “Are you mad because someone took your toy? You can say, ‘I’m mad!’”
Create a calm environment: Too much noise or activity can overwhelm toddlers. Keep the TV or music low, avoid crowded places when they’re tired, and plan high-energy activities for when they are rested.
Offer a “cosy corner”: Make a quiet space at home with pillows, soft toys, or books. Let your toddler know it’s a safe place to calm down when they feel out of control.
Address teething: If teething is causing biting, offer cold washcloths, teethers, or crunchy snacks like carrot sticks to soothe their gums.
Ensure enough rest: Tired toddlers are more likely to bite. Move bedtime earlier or set up a nap schedule.

What to Do When Your Toddler Bites

How you respond is very important when your toddler bites.
Here’s what to do in the moment:

Stay calm: It’s normal to feel upset, but try not to yell or react angrily. Take a deep breath and respond calmly to keep the situation under control.
Check on the victim: First, make sure the person who was bitten is okay. Look for broken skin, wash the area with soap and water, and comfort them. This also shows your toddler that biting doesn’t get extra attention.
Use simple words: In a firm but neutral tone, say something like, “No biting. Biting hurts.” Keep it short and clear, as toddlers can’t understand long explanations when they’re upset.
Show empathy: Help your toddler notice how the other person feels. For example, “Look, your friend is crying because biting hurts.” This teaches them empathy and the impact of their actions.
Redirect to a new activity: Move your toddler to a different activity, like playing with a new toy. If they’re upset about hurting someone, let them apologise if they’re ready, but don’t force it.
Don’t punish or shame: Avoid calling your toddler “a biter,” yelling at them, or biting them back. This can make them more upset or confused and won’t teach better behaviour.

Dealing with a toddler who bites can feel like a challenge, but it’s a normal part of their growth. They’re not being naughty, they’re just learning how to handle big emotions, explore their surroundings, or deal with discomfort.

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FAQs on Have a Toddler Who Bites? Here's What You Can Do About It

Can toddlers start biting by copying other kids?
Yes. Toddlers often imitate behaviours they see in other children, including biting.
How long does the biting phase last for toddlers?
The biting phase usually lasts a few months and often decreases by age 3.