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# Reduce Your Child's Hitting, Biting, and Shoving
- URL: https://blog.helpforyourchild.com/reduce-your-childs-hitting-biting-and-shoving/
- Published: 2013-01-13T19:43:07.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-07T21:29:20.000Z
- Author: Dr. John Carosso
- Tags: Behavioral Health, School & Education, Treatment, legacy-no-image

*Written by* Dr. John Carosso

**Get them talking, not hitting**

When hearing of toddlers and preschoolers becoming aggressive, the first question I ask is usually related to language; how well can the child communicate his or her frustration? It stands to reason that a child who has difficulty ‘using his words’ is more prone to hit or shove.

**Recent Research**

A new longitudinal study out of Pennsylvania State University found that children who had better language skills as toddlers expressed less anger by age 4; and were better-able to occupy themselves.

**So what?**

Treatment focus for aggressive toddlers and preschoolers needs to focus on improving communication skills. If your child is struggling with language and at times is also aggressive, ramp-up the speech/language sessions to both Private and County-based. Also, work with your behavioral–health staff at Community Psychiatric to utilize reminders, visual prompts, picture-cues, short-phrases, visual schedules, and star charts to facilitate communication and subsequent problem-solving. We've consistently seen excellent response to such an approach.

**Don't hesitate to ask for help**

Email me at [jcarosso@cpcwecare.com](mailto:jcarosso@cpcwecare.com) or call the office at **1-877-899-6500**. Also, for daily tips and suggestions, follow me on **Facebook** and **Twitter**!!

*God bless.*