Toddler bites and kicks

[darkmodeon]

How do a stop it? Nearly 3. I end up shouting No! Get off! which isn't ideal but they shock me every time. Help!

Track back through what happens leading up to the behaviour. Something is triggering it.
Does it stop when you shout at them to get off?

Tiredness. And no, so it's pointless. I end up walking out the room and then coming back.

What else have you tried? I remember if they were so upset that cuddles didn't work, just sitting quietly nearby while they got it out of their system was the only solution. They get so furious at this age.

That's a good idea so just sit far enough a way and maybe give them a cushion or something.

So normally I just get up and walk away out the room so I don't react too strongly. I have shouted No! A few times out of shock really. I tried holding hands down and saying I can't let you do that which results in them biting me or pulling their hands free and smacking me.

I think a stern 'no' isn't out of order if they're hurting you. But yes, tell them you love them then sit down nearby and wait it out. Say as little as possible unless reassuring them helps.
Obvs move to a safe place first if needed.
Then a big hug when they're calm, and move on. I like the cushion idea, do they have a special toy?
It's worth a chat about it much later on when you're both happier, but keep it brief and blameless.
This all works with teenagers too btw, so it's worth perfecting your skills now 😁

I am going through this again and did with my first. My first used to kick and hit and at age 3 I started using the tactic of 'mummy won't play with you if you kick mummy' and would leave the room.

I know it sounds awful but I had to help him realise that he wouldn't get more attention but actually less attention when he started kicking.

My next child again hitting, scratching, hair pulling and kicking but normally due to not getting his way. So teeth cleaning,, bath. Now again I retreat and leave him in a safe space, cot, middle of the carpet. Give him a minute and come back and give a cuddle.

It is t stopping the behaviour yet but it means I am getting less hurt. Sounds a strange thing to say but toddlers can hurt a lot!