When your toddler hits, it is important to remember that it doesn't mean you have failed as a parent and that your child is not inherently bad. Toddlers often hit due to unseen emotional forces, most commonly fear. Punishment and time-outs are not effective solutions and can even make the hitting behavior worse. Instead, gently and calmly redirect your child's arm away from the person they are hitting, using mild words to communicate that hitting is not acceptable. By avoiding strong reactions and providing information instead, the hitting experiments will eventually lose their novelty. Reacting strongly to hitting can actually reinforce the behavior, making it more likely to reoccur. It's important to understand that hitting is often a result of hidden fears and repressed emotions, which can manifest in various ways. By creating a safe and supportive environment, you can help your child manage and process their emotions in healthier ways.
Behavior
When your toddler hits, it is important to respond without reacting and anticipate their behavior. Create a friendly barrier by gently blocking their arm or hand when they attempt to hit, while offering eye contact and saying calmly that hitting is not allowed. Allow your child to express their emotions and support them through their upset, listening attentively and offering comforting phrases. By staying calm and providing a safe space for emotional release, you help your child let go of fear and negative energy, ultimately leading to a happier and more positive outcome. Trust that your child knows how to treat others well and by setting healthy limits and practicing Staylistening, you allow them to regain control over their emotions and behavior.
Handling aggresion and hitting
Professional Behavior Resources
The mission of PCIT International is to foster the well-being of children and families of all cultures and nations through a well-researched, effective set of skills known as Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). PCIT International's mission includes a commitment to build and strengthen our diverse community of expert PCIT therapists, trainers, and researchers.
For children exhibiting behaviors in daycare and at risk for getting removed.
Parenting Classes
The National Family Resiliency Center (NFRC) has been serving families since 1991. While known for its expertise and specialty in working with children, teens and adults experiencing life and family transitions (separation, divorce, blended family or re-marriage), our staff also provides services to ALL individuals and families who have experienced or are currently experiencing different challenges.
Virtual, holistic, attachment-based sleep support for babies, toddlers, and breastfeeding families.