Your child’s propensity to spit when you least expect it has you perplexed, ashamed, and baffled.
And if you are unsure how to respond to this apparently impolite, combative, and indecent behavior, continue reading to learn more about why does your child keep spitting and what you can do to help them stop doing it.
Children as young as toddlers and preschoolers frequently spit. It sometimes causes parents to react badly, reprimanding, threatening, or immediately scolding the child. It irritates us and makes us lose all sense of reasoning and consideration.
Toddlers frequently spit when they’re upset.
When they can’t express their annoyance verbally, they spit to express how angry they are. Even if a child is taught not to hit, they can decide that spitting is a better option.
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Spitting can also be used as a form of defense. A young toddler may spit on their playmate to scare them away from stealing their item. Older children often spit as a sign of defiance.
As you navigate the tangle of your child’s growth, parenting an aggressive child may be one of your most challenging obstacles.
It’s possible to teach your child proper ways to engage with other kids and the adults around them, despite how difficult it may sometimes seem.
The secret is creating a concise, unambiguous plan compatible with your goals and carrying it out calmly.
You are your child’s most exemplary role model for appropriate behavior, so always keep that in mind.
Aside from spitting, there are many behaviors children put up with, such as; hitting, biting, using rude words, and kicking. Any one or more of the following factors could be the root of aggressive behaviors:
- Self-defense
- Being put in a challenging circumstance
- Lack of manner
- Extreme rage or irritation
- Improper speech development
- Over-stimulation
- Exhaustion
- Absence of parental oversight
- Mimicking other kids’ hostile actions around them
Table of Contents
Why do children spit? Why does my child keep spitting?
Every action has an unsatisfied need at its core. What is the purpose of your child’s spitting? If you pay attention to when and where they spit, you might learn more about the puzzling circuitry in your child’s brain.
If there are numerous correct responses, don’t be shocked. To find the behavioral triggers, consider the scenario and surrounding circumstances.
Here are a few options:
1. Due to tension or stress
Something in your child’s environment, a damp floor, unpleasant odors, loud noises, or just a change in routine may be causing them anxiety or tension. One way for them to cope with stress is through spitting.
2. Mimicking other children
Your child is likely mimicking their new friend since they have observed them doing so, which is the most acceptable form of cajolery. With the parents of that particular child, you could resolve this issue if you are confident that your child’s spitting is related to contact with that child.
3. They want to draw your attention
Spitting is a typical toddler behavior because it works well to draw attention. Spitting on someone will undoubtedly elicit a response of some kind.
No parent will tolerate this behavior. Spitting will thus succeed since most of us are trained to reward undesirable behavior with attention if your child has been demanding your time and attention. At the same time, you were busy with household duties or work.
4. They find it amusing
Children occasionally spit for amusement and might spit on the floor because they find it amusing. Spitting can become even more enjoyable if they elicit a response from anyone.
Your kid may have just realized they can throw spit pellets out of their mouth. They will then immediately start honing and perfecting this talent.
Children who have mastered the art of spitting could even enjoy watching your reactions to their spitting incidents. They probably won’t understand how unpleasant this is for you.
5. Check if the child’s spitting has a physical cause.
Regular spitting could indicate a medical issue, possibly a bronchial issue. To determine whether that is the case, speak with a doctor. If so, develop a strategy on what to do when he needs to spit.
You may, for instance, advise him to bring tissues to school or have some on his desk, and you could provide him with a bag to put in his desk for storing used tissues.
Set up a signal the kid can use to let you know he needs to use the restroom to spit, if necessary.
6. The child might have Autism
Additionally, some kids with Autism or other problems such as enlarged adenoids, tonsils, or oral motor weaknesses can cause children to produce more drool than the typical child.
They may discover it to be a valuable means of expressing their emotions or regaining some measure of control.
How to React to Your Child’s Spitting Behavior
At some point, almost all children spit. Your response to your child’s spitting will significantly impact whether or not they repeat the behavior.
The best ways to react if your toddler spits are listed below;
1. Encourage good conduct
An incentive system can be beneficial if your child’s spitting is a critical concern. Make a behavior chart so your child can accumulate stickers or points for good behavior.
Allow kids to trade stickers or points for actual prizes later, such as Television time or the chance to play a family game they enjoy.
Give heaps of compliments. The compliment will motivate children to continue avoiding spitting
2. Make sure your child cleans up the mess
Give your child some cleaning equipment so they may clean up any spittle they may have dropped on the floor. If they spit on you or another person, ask them to wash it off if it’s suitable.
3. Inform your child that spitting is unacceptable.
Resist the desire to lecture or chastise your child incessantly. All you need is a brief, straightforward reminder that “spitting is disgusting” or “spitting is unacceptable.”
Adults should convey the same, resounding message about why spitting is inappropriate to children if they do so in various contexts.
4. Consider the restitution method
Restitution may be required if your child spits on another person or their property.
For instance, they demand that they give the victim their preferred toy for the day or give them an additional task to complete. Making apologies might be facilitated by doing the victim a favor.
5. Keep your cool
You may lose your patience due to the disrespect and disgust of spitting.
However, the best thing you can do when your child loses their temper is to serve as an example of how to manage your emotions in a way acceptable to others.
The incorrect message is conveyed by shouting or hitting. If you’re very upset, take a little break. Don’t speak up until you are composed enough in a normal tone.
6. Educate your child on the right thing to do instead.
Spend some time introducing your child to non-spitting methods. Please encourage them to use effective communication techniques and constructive anger control techniques.
Your youngster will eventually learn how to express unpleasant feelings in a way that is appropriate for social situations.
7. Neglect any attention-seeking action
Ignore your child if they spit to get attention. Continually ignore them, not even noticing a single time when they spit. They will eventually see the ineffectiveness of their efforts and move on.
Your child will persist in spitting to get your attention if you falter in your determination and treat it with respect even once.
