Biting, Pinching & Hair-Pulling : Why Young Children Lash Out and How to Help
Why Young Children Bite, Pinch & Pull Hair?
If your baby or toddler has ever bitten, pinched, or pulled hair, you’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong. These behaviours are incredibly common in children aged 6 months to 3 years. At Read 2 Grow Nollamara, our educators see these behaviours regularly and understand that they are part of normal development, not signs of aggression or “naughtiness.”
Let’s explore why these behaviours happen, how to respond calmly and effectively, and how early learning environments like ours support children through these tricky stages.
Why Young Children Bite, Pinch, and Pull Hair:
1. Communication (Before Words Develop)
Toddlers often act out physically when they don’t yet have the language to express:
- frustration
- excitement
- fear
- curiosity
- a desire for attention
- a need for space
A pinch or bite might simply mean, “I don’t know how to say what I’m feeling.”
2. Sensory Exploration
Babies learn through touch and mouthing objects. Biting and grabbing are part of exploring textures and sensations.
3. Teething
Swollen gums can lead to biting for relief. Cold teething rings can help.
4. Impulse Control is Not Developed Yet
Young children act quickly and without foresight. This is normal — the brain regions responsible for self-control are still forming.
5. Overstimulation or Fatigue
Crowded rooms, loud noises, transitions, or tiredness can trigger physical responses.
How to Respond Calmly and Effectively
Stay Calm and Neutral
Reacting with shock or anger can frighten a child. Instead:
- “I won’t let you bite.”
- “That hurt. Gentle hands.”
Calm repetition builds understanding.
Offer Words to Replace Actions
Children learn emotional language from caregivers:
- “You’re angry. You can say ‘stop!’”
- “You want a turn. Say ‘my turn?’”
Redirect Behaviour
Offer alternatives:
- “Biting hurts. You can chew this teether.”
- “Hands are not for pulling. Let’s pat gently.”
Comfort the Hurt Child First
This teaches empathy and models care.
What Not to Do
- Never bite back — it confuses and frightens children.
- Don’t shame or punish.
- Avoid long explanations — toddlers can’t process them.
- Don’t assume it’s intentional or malicious.
How Educators at Read 2 Grow Nollamara Support These Behaviours
In our centre, we use predictable routines and warm, responsive interactions to minimise physical behaviours. Our strategies include:
- Close supervision during group play
- Emotion coaching
- Gentle reminders and modelling
- Separate calm spaces for overwhelmed children
- Supporting language development
- Redirecting to sensory play or teething items
We understand that every child is at a different stage and needs patience.
When Should Parents Worry?
Most biting or hair-pulling phases resolve naturally with development. However, if:
- a child injures others frequently
- behaviour escalates
- communication is extremely limited
- sensory issues appear severe
…you can speak with our educators for guidance.
Ready to See How We Support Child Development at Read 2 Grow Nollamara?
If you’d like to see how we create calm, balanced, child-friendly spaces every day at Read 2 Grow Nollamara, we’d love to welcome you. Simply click the tour link here to book your visit and discover how our nurturing, literacy-focused environment supports children’s wellbeing and development
