01/30/2026
BITING
Why do children bite?
Because they get a powerful reaction!
Once a child gets a powerful reaction from a behavior, it becomes an irresistible tool. Some of the most intense biters I have worked with were children who spoke spontaneously at three to five-word sentence level!
What do we do?
We use an Extinction Program.
An Extinction Program eliminates the behavior by ignoring the behavior.
How do we use the Extinction Program?
If YOU are bitten:
1) TRY to stay calm.
2) Do NOT name the bite or the biter.
3) Do not try to reason with the biter.
4) Ignore the biter. (Within safety limits.)
5) Treat yourself to a favorite comfort.
If another child is bitten:
Accept that the child will almost always react.
REPEAT steps 1-4 above.
Treat the bitten child to a comfort.
TAKE NOTE:
When you are doing this program correctly, the biter will most likely attempt to bite again in order to make sure that you were “listening!”
BE ON THE LOOKOUT and repeat the above steps if necessary!
VERY IMPORTANT.....EVERY adult in the biter’s life MUST be aware and cooperative with this program!
