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how to teach 14 month old that hitting and scratching is wrong?

dpraseutsinhdpraseutsinh member
in Toddlers: 12 - 24 Months
I understand that LO is too young for discipline, she just doesnt know any better! What is the best way to teach her that what shes doing is wrong? I really dont like using the word no as I feel it will just make her do it more. THANKS!
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Re: how to teach 14 month old that hitting and scratching is wrong?

  • vamomtobevamomtobe member
    Our LO is 20 months and still working on this.  He likes to swat when he's excited or if he gets upset.  I tried using a firm "no", and you're right, it just made him do it more for the reaction.  We taught him "gentle hands" which is so silly but it makes sense to him.  We basically touch his cheeks softly and say "Gentle hands!  That's so nice!" over and over.  If he hits, I'll say "ouch!" because he understands that, and then ask him to "show me gentle hands".  Then we praise him for being gentle when he softly touches our faces.  And it is adorable.  

    Whether you're saying "no!" or "gentle hands!" you're giving LO a reaction, which is what they're looking for.  I think this strategy is working (for us at least!) because one reaction focuses on the negative behavior you're trying to end, and the other focuses on a positive, alternative behavior.  
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