Understanding Infant & Toddler Biting Behaviors at LPE
Biting is one of the most common challenges in infant and toddler classrooms—and one of the least comfortable for parents to experience. At Le Petit Elephant Nursery and Preschool, we see biting not as “misbehavior,” but as a natural, developmentally appropriate stage of growth that young children eventually outgrow with the right support.
Why Do Young Children Bite?
Infants and toddlers bite for many reasons: teething discomfort, frustration, exploration, limited verbal skills, or the simple cause-and-effect curiosity of “what happens if I do this?” At this age, children are still developing language, impulse control, and social understanding. The bite itself is not an act of aggression—it’s communication in its earliest form.
Our RIE-Inspired Approach
At LPE, we draw on the RIE philosophy (Resources for Infant Educarers), which emphasizes respect, observation, and modeling. Instead of punishing or shaming, our teachers:
Stay calm and present – We respond quickly but gently, ensuring all children are safe.
Narrate what happened – We give language to the moment: “You wanted the toy, and you bit. Biting hurts. Let’s try asking for the toy instead.”
Model alternatives – We show children how to use words, gestures, or other ways to express needs.
Offer comfort – We tend to the child who was bitten with empathy and care, modeling kindness and respect.
Observe patterns – Teachers look for triggers (teething, transitions, fatigue, hunger) and adapt the environment or routine to reduce biting opportunities.
Partnering With Families
We know biting can feel alarming to parents. That’s why communication is central to our practice. We share honest updates while protecting every child’s privacy, and we collaborate with families on consistent strategies between home and school.
Growing Beyond the Bite
Biting is a phase, not a defining behavior. With patience, modeling, and consistent guidance, children at LPE learn healthier ways to express themselves. In the process, they also build resilience, empathy, and social-emotional skills that will serve them well beyond preschool.
Here are some additional resources that we utilize at LPE regarding biting and other challenging behaviors at LPE:
Helping Children When they Hit, Bite or Push
Do's and Don'ts to End Hitting and Biting
Understanding and Responding to Child who Bite
Strategies for Responding to Infant and Toddlers Challenging Behaviors