Teeth Are Not for Biting

By Elizabeth Verdick, Marieka Heinlen (Illustrator)

Part of the Toddler Tools series

Discover why biting hurts and explore kinder alternatives.

4.3/7 Bookroo expert·4.1/5 Goodreads · 902 ratings

24 pages

$9.99Save 4%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Young children often bite out of frustration or discomfort. This engaging book offers gentle guidance, teaching kids to choose positive actions like chewing a toy or seeking a hug. With vibrant illustrations and simple words, it provides practical tips for parents and caregivers to prevent biting and encourage better behavior. Will these strategies help transform biting into smiles?

From the publisher

“Crunch crunch crunch. Teeth are strong and sharp. Crunch crunch crunch. Teeth can help you chew. But teeth are not for biting. Ouch! Biting hurts.” Sooner or later, almost all young children will bite someone—a friend, a parent, a sibling. This upbeat, colorful, virtually indestructible book helps prevent biting and teaches positive alternatives.

The companion to our best-selling Hands Are Not for Hitting Board Book, Teeth Are Not for Biting gives reasons why children might want to bite. Little mouths feel sore when new teeth come in; sometimes kids bite when they’re hungry, tired, cranky, frustrated, angry, bored, distressed, or seeking attention. Author Elizabeth Verdick suggests positive things children can do instead of biting: chew a chewy toy, drink a cold drink, get a hug, tell a grown-up. This book also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

At a glance

Format: Board book
Pages: 24
Reading age: 0–3
Audience: Board
Lexile: AD210L

Themes & topics

Books about biting Books about teeth Books about family Books about toddlers Books about social themes

What readers & critics say

Reviews

4.3

out of 7

4.3

“This book is slightly moralizing and direct in its instructions but the message "don't bite!" is definitely very clear and present throughout and it gives specific alternatives children can try based on the different triggers they may be experiencing for biting.”

Marmee

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one