How do you handle? Does he understand when he hits it hurts others? Do you say No, distract, punish??? HELP

all 3 of my boys went throught this and bitting too. Sounds like you have good answers and I wish you all the best! It's so hard at times!

Hi,

I collaborate with families regarding these issues all the time.

Do you mind sharing strategies with someone who is not a parent/family member?

I am the early childhood educator for an early intervention program. I love the challenge of figuring out what communication is behind the behavior and how we can gently and respectfully teach alternative ways of communicating.

You all seem to "be there" already.

Aloha,
Eileen

HI
I am new here and I completely hear what you are saying because my son is 2 1/2 and even though he is my second child I find myself questioning all the time....hmmm....is he doint this because he's two or is it because he doesn't understand because he is autistic. I find that ijust calmly and continuously correct him verbally or redirect him and it eventually works.

I dont think any child understand that hitting hurts at 2. I tell them no in a firm voice - sometimes grabbing their hands if necessary. Then distract elsewhere. If the child seems to be using that as a form of communication - a way to get my attention because they dont know another - I cange this slightly. I grab the hand and say "gentle". THen help them to touch me gently befor I respond. Once they seem to have it, I ignore them until they touch me gently - or stop them with a "no" until they touch me more gently.

I say no and distract. I don't think they understand that it hurts and when they get a strong reaction they want to do it again.