She just started biting and its only me. She doesn't do it because she's mad or upset she does it then laughs like she is playing. I never laugh, especially since it hurts, and I always tell her that is bad and It hurts mommy blah blah blah and then put her in time out. She continues to do it, she is a very smart little girl so I know she understands what I'm saying. I know kids do these sort of things for attention, but I give her plenty of it. I've even started bopping her in the mouth when she does it since I don't know what else to do. I really don't like doing that because I don't want her to think it is OK to hit. I have a 6 month old and feel that I need to stop this biting before she starts biting her. Any suggestions??

Biting is a pretty normal phase for a child to go through between 18 and 24 months or so. You are right, it is important to get a handle on it fast. First of all, children that age react to extremes. I would cry out "OUCH!" quite loud when/if she bit me. Then I would tell her "NO! When you bite it HURTS!" It may happen 3 or 4 times but if you do the same thing every time it should work.

It sounds to me like your daughter is just trying to play and get some kind of attention from you. I am NOT saying she is being bad or that you aren't giving her enough attention. It's just like she doesn't know how to express it. It serves no purpose to punish a child for this. Therefore, a time out rarely works.

However, if you are already playing with her and she bites. I would still cry out "Ouch! NO! If you bite it hurts!" quite loudly and in a manner it startles her. If you are holding her, then promptly put her down and walk away... even if it's just to the bathroom for a minute. That way she realizes there is no fun in it. Don't get into a long discussion about it. Be quick and straight to the point.

You are right, you shouldn't hit her because you will just teach her another bad habit. You also have to resolve this so the baby doesn't get hurt. Hope this helps. It worked with my 2 kids and my adopted daughter.

Hugs, Didi