Understanding and Responding to Biting

• This course is suitable for early years practitioners, childminders, nursery staff, room leaders and other professionals who care for and support young children.

Biting is common in the early years, but incidents can be upsetting for children, families and practitioners. This course explores why children may bite, how to respond calmly and consistently, and practical ways to identify triggers, reduce future incidents and communicate professionally with parents.

• Recognise that biting can be a normal part of early childhood development.
• Identify common reasons why young children may bite.
• Explain how behaviour can be a form of communication.
• Respond calmly and appropriately when a biting incident occurs.
• Use practical strategies to identify triggers and reduce future incidents.
• Communicate professionally with parents while maintaining confidentiality.

1. 1Module 1: Why Do Children Bite? – Is biting normal? | Common reasons children bite | Understanding behaviour as communication
2. 2Module 2: Responding to a Biting Incident – What to do immediately | Supporting both children | What to avoid | Recording the incident
3. 3Module 3: Preventing Future Biting – Identifying triggers | Practical prevention strategies | Teaching alternative ways to communicate
4. 4Module 4: Working with Parents – Talking to parents professionally | Maintaining confidentiality | When to seek additional support