Slap happy child

[Care]

Hi MLC,
I have had some kids around the same age in my day home that did that (or bite, pull hair or take away toys from others). They are too young to realize they hurt someone, but you want it to stop for sure. What seems to help for me is to stay close to them when they are around others and gently stop their hand, saying ' no slapping/biting' in a serious tone. And right away say 'be gentle to...(name other child)' , this I say in a very kind voice and I show them how to be gentle (like give a toy to other child, or stroke there hair gently etc). You need to be on top of it for a while to be effective, so sit/play right beside your child and give her no chance to slap when your not around (put the kid in playpen or beside you in a high chair when you need to do something else). Don't worry, it will take half a day tops and it's worth it.