Daycare Biting and Hitting Guide 2026: Understanding Toddler Behavior
Complete guide to biting and hitting at daycare in 2026. Why it happens, how quality programs respond, and what parents can do when their child bites or is bitten.
Biting and hitting are developmentally normal toddler behaviors that peak between 12-30 months. Understanding why it happens and how quality programs respond helps parents navigate this challenging phase.
Table of Contents
Why Toddlers Bite and Hit
Developmental Reasons
| Reason | Explanation | |--------|-------------| | Limited language | Can't express needs verbally | | Frustration | Overwhelmed by feelings | | Teething | Oral sensory need | | Exploration | Testing cause and effect | | Overwhelm | Overstimulated or tired |
It's Normal (Really)
Know that:
- Most toddlers bite at some point
- It's not a sign of bad parenting
- It's not a predictor of future aggression
- It usually peaks and resolves by age 3
Quality Program Response
Prevention Strategies
| Strategy | Purpose | |----------|---------| | Close supervision | Intervene before it happens | | Lower ratios | More eyes on toddlers | | Adequate toys | Reduce conflict triggers | | Calm environment | Prevent overstimulation | | Language coaching | "Use your words" |
When It Happens
Quality response includes:
- Immediate, calm intervention
- Comfort for bitten child first
- Brief, firm "no biting" to biter
- Redirection to appropriate activity
- Documentation and parent notification
When Your Child Is Bitten
What to Expect
| Element | Standard Practice | |---------|-------------------| | Notification | Same-day, usually at pickup | | First aid | Cleaned, iced, documented | | Incident report | Written with details | | Privacy | Biter's name not disclosed |
How to Respond
Appropriate steps:
- Acknowledge it's upsetting
- Ask about program's prevention plan
- Discuss if pattern is emerging
- Know it's developmentally normal
- Don't demand biter's expulsion
When Your Child Bites
Emotional Response
Remember:
- Don't panic—it's normal
- Don't shame your child
- Work as a team with daycare
- Expect it may happen again
Working with Daycare
| Action | Purpose | |--------|---------| | Ask about triggers | Understand patterns | | Share home strategies | Consistency | | Discuss supervision | Prevention | | Check environment | Reduce stressors | | Consider timing | Hunger, tiredness |
Red Flags
When to Be Concerned
| Concern | Action | |---------|--------| | Continues past age 3 | Consult pediatrician | | Very frequent (daily) | Evaluate environment | | Causes serious injury | Increase supervision | | Accompanies other issues | Professional evaluation |
Resources
Last updated: December 2025