Biting is a common problem for parents of some babies and or toddlers. In Biting: Part One we'll look at: What makes babies bite?, and What you can do to change the behaviour?
Lets begin by saying biting is natural and, anatomically speaking, the jaw is designed to do so with or without teeth. Appropriate biting is quite acceptable when it done on one's own fingers, toys, finger foods etc. It is not acceptable for a baby attempts to communicate through biting. For instance, bub bites mum during breast feeding or, another child (younger or older) during play.
It needs to be said that there will always be some babies/children who prefer biting to hitting, pinching or all of the above. I remember very well the times each one of my children, when I was breast feeding, attempted to bite. It usually happened at the end of the day, when I knew my supply was low. I believed it was their way of saying: "I have finished that side, where is the rest?", and "My teeth are on the move in my gums and I would like to use your nipple as a teething ring". Naturally my response, and I'm certain those of you who have experienced it will agree, "OUCH"! This usually startled my bub, so I then reassured them, followed by a calm but firm "NO BITING." (through my gritted teeth). My son (4th baby) was about 9 months old, armed with top and bottom teeth, he gave me a curious look, then bit my nipple. The cheeky bugger did it twice and managed to draw blood! I thought I had lost my nipple! I was VERY wary after that, needless to say that he was weaned a month later.
The best way to handle bun biting the breast is to keep an eye on bub whilst feeding. Note when they've emptied one side. Indications are usually them stopping sucking, pulling back, then giving a little bite. This is the cue to pull your nipple away from their mouth and assess your breast for its emptiness/fullness. If bub has had one breast only, offer the other. If bub has had both sides, and seems to have had enough, don't give them the opportunity to play/bite on your nipple. Remove bub from your breast.
I cannot tell you not to yell if you are in pain. But remember, reassure bub if they're startled, then calmly let them know biting is not on! On the other hand, don't be the martyr either, babies are quick learners and, it's YOUR nipple!
Tune in next week - Biting: Part Two - toddlers.
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