United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Owen is 1 year old now and has been biting things, himself, and us for 6 months. It's now a problem because he can bite hard and we try to discourage it in a positive way.

At first, I thought it was because he was teething, however, I've since noticed him biting pillows, chairs, and the sofa when he tries to pull himself up. This makes sense to me because he cannot use his left arm to hold him in position while he pulls himself up with his right hand. It's like he has learned to compensate by using his teeth and right arm.

Do you think my evaluation is right? Has anyone else's kids had this same habit.

We really want him to stop biting. Any suggestions?

Hi Orbshire.......I don't have alot of help to offer......you may be right aobut the compensation or it could be frustration? Improvisation works wonders in any case.....does he go to PT? If so ask his Therapist about ways to teach him to get up and so on.
Good Luck to you and yours.

Lenni

O.K. this is probably mean but I tried everything for a biting child that I had and nothing was working, I had bruises from his bites. After being bit one time I yelled as LOUD as I could in a mean voice, "DON'T YOU EVER BITE ME AGAIN!!!!" He was so taken aback by my anger that he just stopped doing it. Looking back he probably felt like he hit a brick wall. Afterward I gave him hugs and told him why I was so angry, so he didn't think I hated him.

I understand about using the mouth as a tool because my son does that too but he still can learn proper ways to use his mouth without causing others or himself pain.

Good luck, I know how painful it is to get bit.
T.

Hannah started biting around one, but it didn't last very long. She bit Lisa once in a store and Lisa yelled so loud at her that she never did it again. We generally use positive reinforcement, but sometimes you just have to lay down the law. There is no excuse for biting. Ever! Most daycares and schools will not allow children to attend that bite.

You may also want to talk to a child psychologist. They should be able to give you ideas on how to redirect him.

Good luck.

Clint

I have to say that I think your evaluation is RIGHT ON.
My son, Josh, always used his teeth to bite the couch when he was beginning to pull himself up. I know it was for extra leverage. But as his legs and unaffected arm got stronger, he didn't do it anymore. As for biting people, he still did it every great once in awhile up until about 5 months ago... and I've come to the conclusion it was during the times when he was in a stressful situation and was feeling neglected (he would bite me or grandpa to get our full attention)