15mo biting and scratching, how do i deal with this?

[reallywittyname]

Dd has always been placid and happy. But recently she has taken to scratching me when I'm doing something she doesn't like such as changing her nappy or cleaning her teeth or daring to put clothes on her - things which she's never been bothered about before. Then this morning she bit me while I was trying to wash her face (gently, with a warm flannel, not a power hose or a chisel). I'm afraid I shouted at her but it didn't have the least effect!

What should I do? She is nice as pie the rest of the time and doesn't do it to other children at nursery or any of the staff. If I don't react will she learn that it doesn't get her anywhere? Or will she think it's ok because no reaction means no consequences? I know she is still "just a baby" but believe me she knows exactly what she's doing!

She sleeps well, eats well, and is a bright little button. I don't know where this has come from, she hasn't any siblings yet and we play and talk to her lots. She has been going to nursery since January and is very happy there. Please help!

Every single time it happens tell her 'no' in a firm voice, put her down and walk away so she doesn't get a reaction.

Scratching, biting and hitting are awful phases that most kids go through. When my dd1 used to bite me I'd tell her 'no' firmly and then either put her on the floor and walk away or carry on getting her dressed/hair brushed depending on what we were doing at the time.

It's hard to know what to do sometimes when they're little as they can't understand if you explain why they shouldn't do something but its hard to not engage and walk away/ignore what they're doing.

Agree with 'no' and walk away. Also, keep her nails short! Clip every three days or so.

Thanks ladies! I will tell her no in a firm voice and put her down/walk away when possible.