A Gentle Guide to Kindness: A Comprehensive Review of Teeth Are Not for Biting by Elizabeth Verdick

Introduction: Why This Book Matters

Parenting is a journey filled with countless teachable moments—some adorable, some frustrating, and some downright bewildering. If you’ve ever watched in horror as your sweet toddler suddenly chomps down on a playmate (or worse, you), you know how challenging it can be to teach little ones that teeth are not for biting. Enter Elizabeth Verdick’s Teeth Are Not for Biting (Board Book), part of the Best Behavior Series, a simple yet powerful tool for parents and caregivers navigating this common (but often embarrassing) phase.

This board book isn’t just a quick fix—it’s a gentle, engaging, and developmentally appropriate way to help toddlers understand why biting hurts and what they can do instead. But does it live up to its reputation? Let’s dive deep into this must-have for early childhood bookshelves.

Plot Summary: What’s It All About?

Teeth Are Not for Biting doesn’t follow a traditional narrative but instead presents a rhythmic, repetitive structure that reinforces its core message. The book opens with a simple, direct statement:

“Teeth are not for biting. Ouch! Biting hurts.”

From there, it explores why children bite (frustration, teething, curiosity) and offers positive alternatives, such as using words, hugging, or asking for help. The illustrations (by Marieka Heinlen) show diverse toddlers in everyday situations—playing, crying, hugging—making the lessons relatable.

The book closes with a reinforcement of kindness, reminding little ones that teeth are for smiling, chewing, and saying words—not for hurting others.

Character Analysis & Development: Learning Through Relatable Scenarios

Since this is a behavioral guide rather than a storybook, the “characters” are really stand-ins for real toddlers. The illustrations feature a diverse cast of children, ensuring that young readers see themselves reflected in the book.

  • The Biter: Often depicted mid-action, looking frustrated or surprised by their own behavior.
  • The Child Who Was Bitten: Shows clear distress, helping toddlers empathize with the pain biting causes.
  • The Caregiver: Sometimes shown offering comfort or redirecting behavior, modeling how adults can help.

The lack of named characters keeps the focus on universal experiences, making it easier for kids to apply the lessons to their own lives.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Why It Works for Toddlers

Verdick’s approach is simple, direct, and repetitive—exactly what toddlers need. Key techniques include:

✅ Short, rhythmic sentences – Easy for little ones to follow and remember.
✅ Positive reinforcement – Instead of just saying “don’t bite,” it offers what to do instead.
✅ Interactive prompts – Some pages ask questions like, “What can you do when you feel like biting?” encouraging participation.

The board book format is perfect for tiny hands, and the sturdy pages can withstand enthusiastic (or frustrated) gripping.

Themes & Deeper Meaning: More Than Just “No Biting”

While the primary lesson is obvious, the book subtly reinforces bigger themes:

🔹 Empathy – Helps children recognize others’ feelings.
🔹 Emotional Regulation – Teaches that frustration is normal, but there are better ways to cope.
🔹 Communication Skills – Encourages using words instead of actions.

It’s not just about stopping a behavior—it’s about building emotional intelligence.

Personal Reading Experience: Did It Help?

As a parent who has survived the “biting phase”, I can confirm: this book works. My toddler went from chomping on everything (including my shoulder—ouch!) to saying, “No bite! Teeth for food!” after just a few reads.

The bright, expressive illustrations kept her engaged, and the repetitive phrasing made the message stick. It wasn’t an overnight fix, but it gave us a shared language to talk about biting in a calm, constructive way.

Comparison to Other Books in the Genre

There are other no-biting books out there (No Biting by Karen Katz, Little Dinos Don’t Bite by Michael Dahl), but Verdick’s stands out because:

✔ It’s more direct – No metaphors, just clear cause-and-effect.
✔ More inclusive illustrations – Represents a wider range of kids.
✔ Part of a trusted series – The Best Behavior Series includes other gems like Hands Are Not for Hitting and Voices Are Not for Yelling.

If you want a straightforward, no-frills approach, this is the best choice.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths

  • ✅ Clear, effective messaging – Toddlers get it.
  • ✅ Durable, toddler-friendly format – Survives teething phases.
  • ✅ Encourages positive behavior – Not just scolding, but teaching.

Weaknesses

  • ❌ Very basic – If you want a story, this isn’t it.
  • ❌ May need reinforcement – Works best when paired with real-life redirection.

Who Should Read This Book?

✔ Parents of toddlers (especially ages 1-3)
✔ Daycare providers & preschool teachers
✔ Anyone dealing with biting phases

If your child has ever left teeth marks on a sibling, this book is for you.

Memorable Quotes

“Teeth are for chewing food… not for biting your friend!”

“When you feel mad, use your words. Say, ‘I’m mad!’ and stomp your feet.”

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Toddler Parenting

Teeth Are Not for Biting is one of those rare parenting books that actually helps. It’s simple, effective, and designed with real toddlers in mind. While it won’t magically erase biting overnight, it gives caregivers a tool to teach kindness and self-control in a way little ones understand.

If you’re in the trenches of toddlerhood, this book is worth every penny.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers

  • Have you dealt with a biting phase? How did you handle it?
  • What other books in the Best Behavior Series have you found helpful?
  • Do you prefer story-based or direct-message books for teaching behavior?

Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💬

Get this book on Amazon

For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.

For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.