Many young children and toddlers go through hitting or biting phases. Aggressive behavior can disrupt them and others at a preschool program or at home. If your little one has been lashing out, you may look for ways to make them stop. To help you identify the problem and keep them calm, here are a few tips for dealing with a child that frequently acts out this way.

How to Help Calm an Aggressive Toddler

1. Understand the Root of the Problem

Most toddlers go through a stage when they hit and bite simply to see what will happen. However, if your child continues being aggressive after entering a preschool program, it's likely that they are experiencing feelings that they don't know how to articulate. Young children often don't have the vocabulary for describing complex feelings even to themselves. For example, they may be afraid or uncertain, or feel like they don’t have control over their life. To help you understand what the issue is, teach them what anger, frustration, fear, and uncertainty mean.

2. Use a Gentle Approach

Punishing your child for hitting is likely to frustrate them and encourage them to lash out further. Instead, redirect them gently. Remind them of the no-hitting rule and explain why it exists. Talk to them in a calm way, as kids often take tone and mood cues from their parents.

3. Listen Patiently

Resist the urge to lecture or dismiss what your child has to say. When they feel upset or frustrated, listening to their reasoning and demonstrating that you’re trying to understand can help calm them. It will also give you the information you need to help them express their emotions productively.

4. Coordinate With Their Teachers

When it comes to rules, children need consistency to properly implement them. Ask their teacher if they are being aggressive in their preschool program and how the educator handles it. If you’ve identified reasons for the unwanted behavior, share them with the teachers, who may have further tips for helping them stay calm. Maintaining consistent guidelines for allowed behavior at the home and learning center will prevent confusion and help your little one understand boundaries.

If you're looking for a quality preschool program for your child, choose Mendon Child Care Center in Mendon, NY. Serving the Mendon and Honeoye Falls area, they accept children from birth to five years of age, offering flexible scheduling and trustworthy care. Many of the staff members at this learning center have taught there for over 10 years. Learn more about their available programs online or call (585) 624-2337 to schedule a tour.