The Ask Dr. Sears website says that aggressive biting or hitting occurs most often between the ages of 18 months and 2 1/2 years. Preschool children range in age from 2 to 4 years old, so it's more common for younger kids in the class to bite and hit. Kids may bite or hit because of communication barriers that prevent them to fully expressing themselves. As kids grow older, they may grow out of this behavior. Older kids who experience developmental delays may also act out just as a younger child would. Take time to communicate with the kids and ask the parents for tips on the best way to work with particular children. Some kids may benefit from learning sign language, because this gives them an additional way to communicate.
Preschool kids also act out because of pent-up anger. They may feel frustrated for a number of reasons and then lash out by yelling, kicking or displaying other aggressive behaviors. Kids may feel angry because of problems at home or if someone at school is picking on them. Kids might see angry behavior from their parents and then mimic these behaviors at school. Stay calm and help the child ease their anger constructively. Sometimes kids just need to talk and cry it out. Point out these behaviors to the parents if the child continually expresses anger. Always remain calm and never bite, hit or lash out of the child, because this can only make the problem worse. Never discipline out of anger or frustration. Walk away and cool off if you find that you start to feel anger towards the child.
According to the Ask Dr. Sears website, children may misbehave because they are tired. Kids need plenty of rest each night to function properly the next day. The amount of sleep each child needs can vary, but many kids need nine or more hours of good-quality sleep each night. Taking a nap may help improve a child's mood by recharging his batteries. Limiting television and making naps and early bedtimes a priority may help.
Boredom can also cause a preschool child to misbehave in class. Some kids need constant interaction or activities to keep them busy. If they get bored, they might try to entertain themselves by causing fights and acting out in class. Work with the child to stop the behavior, and avoid giving kids sugary snacks at preschool. The Science Daily website says omega-3 fats may improve brain function and help with attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD). Cod liver oil, salmon and other foods contain ample amounts of brain-benefiting omega-3 fat.