Learning that biting and aggression are normal behavioral traits of toddlers and young children is covered in infant and child development classes. While untrained people may react with shock and label a child bad, educated caregivers have learned strategies to effectively deal with misbehavior when it inevitably occurs.
Having realistic expectations for children comes from knowing how they think. Allowing youngsters to react and behave authentically encourages autonomy. Expecting toddlers, who cannot speak to apologize, for taking someone's toy only confuses them, while saying, "Matt looks sad that you took his toy" can help them understand how their behavior affects others.
Discern when or if a child meets developmental milestones, such as walking or talking, by learning about normal child development. Making children walk or toilet train before they are ready can cause developmental delays. Planning activities and introducing materials at the right time helps children grow emotionally, socially and physically, and is part of all child development coursework.
Planning a learning environment that promotes active learning is essential. While it is common for adults to put out toys that are too complicated and show a frustrated child how to use them, someone with a child development background understands that this steals learning from the child and creates dependency on adults. Putting out toys that children can play with successfully and saying "You really want to figure out that toy" encourages persistence.
Knowing how to redirect, not punish, bad behavior helps children learn to self-regulate so they work cooperatively with others. The article "Why Toddlers Throw Temper Tantrums" by Patty Onderko states, "When you comfort a child in the middle of a tantrum, you reinforce the behavior. Instead, say "I'm sorry you're upset. When you calm down, I'll give you a hug and we can talk about what happened." Taking practicum courses provides caregivers feedback on responsible responses to children's behavior.