How Can We Discourage Our Toddler From Biting?

We thought our 25-month-old son was done teething, but lately he seems to be biting everything in sight — including my wife and me. What can we do?
- Nathan

Biting is pretty common for toddlers — whether they're dealing with fear or attempting to get what they want. Sometimes kids bite because they have seen another child bite.

The next time your son bites, tell him that biting is wrong and give him a time-out for a minute or two. Don't laugh or encourage his behavior, and then teach him other ways to ask for things or to get the attention he needs.

Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: October 2012

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