Yes Playfelt...this is my theory as well in this case. In other cases it is sometimes just frustration and a lack of communication (which does come into play with this non-verbal child), but in this case, he is doing it in play. He is not frustrated or angry at all. I have suggested to the parents to not let him even put his mouth on them in play (aside from kisses of course) because he doesn't understand the difference between using lips or teeth. He also has no concept of pretend, imaginary play...if parents are pretend biting, he would not have any idea of how this differs from real biting.


Quote Originally Posted by playfelt View Post
That sounds like the parents are playing nipping games at home. I'm going to eat you , I'm going to bite you - nibble nibble on cheek, tummy, finger whatever. Parents do not realize that kids do not grasp play and reality at this stage and they are really not playing with their child - they are turning them into a bully that is likely to turn around and do the same "game" to another person.

Play wrestling is the same thing. Parents understand how to make it look like they are slamming the child or punching without actually touching but others watching do not. They punch or kick or push for real.