The following Biting Policy Example tailored for early childhood education and care (ECEC) services in Australia, drawing on best practice from ACECQA, Child Australia, and service-level procedures.
Biting Policy
Version: 1.0
Effective Date: 29th September
Review Date: Annually
Applies to: All educators, staff, volunteers, students, and families
Purpose
To respond to biting incidents with empathy, safety, and developmental understanding, while supporting all children involved. This policy ensures alignment with the National Quality Framework (NQF), Child Safe Standards, and trauma-informed practice.
Guiding Principles
- Biting is a common developmental behaviour, especially in toddlers under 3.
- Responses must be emotionally intelligent, non-punitive, and focused on safety and skill-building.
- Educators will work in partnership with families to understand and support each child’s needs.
Understanding Biting
Children may bite due to:
- Teething or sensory exploration
- Frustration or lack of language
- Overstimulation, fatigue, or transitions
- Emotional distress or unmet needs
- Impulse control challenges (common under age 3)
Prevention Strategies
Educators will:
- Observe and document triggers and patterns
- Provide sensory tools (e.g., chewable items, teething rings)
- Use emotion coaching tools (e.g., picture cards, books, songs)
- Maintain predictable routines and calm environments
- Offer language for emotions and conflict resolution
- Ensure adequate space, supervision, and transitions
Responding to Incidents
When biting occurs:
- Immediate safety response: separate children calmly
- Support the bitten child with comfort and care
- Address the biting child with clear, firm language:
“Biting hurts. I can’t let you bite. Let’s find another way.” - Avoid shaming or punitive measures
- Document the incident and notify families of both children
- Offer a private, respectful conversation with families to discuss support strategies
Family Partnership
- Families will be informed promptly and respectfully
- Educators will share observations, strategies, and developmental insights
- Together, the team will co-design support plans if biting persists
- Confidentiality will be maintained at all times
Documentation & Review
- All incidents will be recorded using the service’s Incident Report Form
- Patterns will be reviewed weekly to inform planning
- Policy will be reviewed annually or after repeated incidents
- Feedback from educators and families will guide updates
Supporting Policies
- Behaviour Guidance Policy
- Child Safe & Wellbeing Policy
- Incident Management Procedure
- Inclusion & Equity Policy
- Trauma-Informed Practice Guidelines
Further Reading
Policies And Procedures In Early Childhood Services
Policy Development In Early Childhood Setting
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