We celebrate numerous milestones in our children’s lives, but “Baby’s First Bite” (at 2½ years) is rarely one of them. There’s no charming chalkboard or Instagram moment to commemorate this event. In fact, it often feels like a private shame that must be endured in solitude.
I have a biter.
If your child isn’t one, you may not grasp the weight of this reality. You might cast disapproving looks my way when your child is upset due to my son’s actions, but you don’t understand how painful that glare is for me. It conveys a message that I’m a terrible parent for allowing my child to hurt yours, which only amplifies my insecurities about my parenting abilities.
You don’t see the tears I’ve shed over this issue. You have no idea how I worry that my child will struggle to make friends, or that he may always feel like an outcast. At just 2½, I fear his future is already bleak because I feel utterly unprepared to help him navigate this behavior.
Deep down, I know that this biting phase is usually temporary and linked to development. Eventually, he will likely move past it (and enter the next stage where he believes he’s a puppy, insisting on eating from a bowl). However, parenting a child who bites brings about distinct challenges. Here are 10 insights only parents of biters can truly understand:
- Playdates Skyrocket Your Anxiety Levels
Each playdate feels like a ticking time bomb. While you might seem like an overprotective parent hovering around your child, you’re really just waiting to step in when you see him about to bite. - Clothing Choices Are Critical
It’s best to avoid shirts featuring sharks or slogans like “I bite” for your little one. While cute on others, they can be seen as inappropriate on a child who has a biting reputation. Halloween costumes? Forget anything remotely sinister. - A Call from Preschool Is a Day Ruiner
Receiving the dreaded call to pick up your child can spoil your day faster than you can consume an entire box of cookies. You may even consider leaving your job to pursue a less stressful career—like being the next Vanna White. - Everyone Has Unsolicited Advice
You will hear plenty of suggestions, but most of them will be no more effective than previous attempts at solving the issue. - Future Orthodontics Worries
With those bite marks on your arm, you can’t help but wonder if future braces are in your child’s future. You even think about whether the orthodontist can use those impressions to save costs later. - Concerns About Your Child’s Reputation
You might find yourself worried that your child is on the fast track to becoming “that kid.” Comments from family, friends, and even strangers might have you convinced that you’re raising a problematic child. - Breastfeeding Is a Thing of the Past
Nursing has become quite painful, making it clear that phase is over. - Creative Solutions May Cross Your Mind
You might ponder some extreme measures—like having your child’s baby teeth removed. You consider if puppy cones exist for toddlers or if it’s acceptable to coat visitors in hot sauce before they interact with your son. - Become a Detective
Each biting incident prompts you to investigate the situation. What caused it? Who was nearby? Yet, you find that toddlers don’t follow a clear pattern, leaving you more puzzled than ever. - Despite Everything, You Love Your Child
Through all the challenges, your love remains unwavering. You hope others can see the wonderful qualities in your child, too. And you hold onto the hope that this phase will pass—eventually.
For more insights on navigating parenting challenges, check out this article from our other blog. Additionally, if you’re exploring options for fertility, Make a Mom offers valuable resources. Lastly, Healthline is an excellent source for pregnancy and home insemination information.
In summary, parenting a child who bites can be a daunting experience filled with unique challenges, emotional turmoil, and a constant search for solutions. Yet, despite the struggles, there exists an unwavering bond of love and hope for a brighter future.