Toddler Biting, Hitting & Throwing | How to Respond Calmly
Why toddlers bite, hit and throw, and how to respond calmly and safely. Evidence-based Australian guidance for parents of 1–3 year olds.
Biting, hitting and throwing can feel shocking the first time your gentle toddler does them — especially if they hurt another child. But these behaviours are almost always communication, not aggression. Your toddler is telling you 'I'm overwhelmed', 'I want that', or 'I don't have the words yet'. Your job is to keep everyone safe and, over time, teach a better way to say it.