Many children will resort to hitting, kicking or pushing a playmate during an angry moment. Kids exhibit this behavior because of a lack of knowledge, wisdom and self-control. Kids will get angry, we can't prevent that. It's our job to teach them appropriate ways to deal with their anger.

Teach him how to express anger or frustration safely. This can be done via role-playing or discussion. It can also be helpful to read children's books about anger together, and then talk about what you've read.

Every time your child hits, immediately and gently take him by the shoulders, look him in the eye and say in a firm voice, "no hitting, time out." Or "when you hit, you sit." Guide the child to a chair or other time out place and announce, "You may get up when you can play without hitting." If the child gets up and hits again, say "You are not ready to get up yet," and direct the child back to time out.

Make sure you are not "play hitting" your child at any time. Children will do as they see done, even though they may do it at inappropriate times. Often young children who wrestle with a parent will then use these same actions during non-wrestling times. Also, pay attention to the television or movies the child is watching that involve hitting or other violence. Young children can become immune to impact of the violence and also model what they see as an appropriate way of handling anger.

Give more attention to the victim than the hitter. After a brief statement, "no hitting" turn your back to the hitter and give attention to the victim. Often the hitter gets so much attention that hitting becomes a way of gaining the spotlight.

Teach the child how to use positive physical touches such as back rubs or foot massages. One preschool engages the school "bullies" to become back-rubbers for the toddler group at naptime. Under direct supervision, children who are more physical gain a positive outlet for their physical energy.

Teach your child to clap his hands together 10 times whenever he feels an urge to hit another child. This suggestion gives him an immediate physical outlet for his angry emotions and helps him learn to keep his hands to himself. Reward with praise anytime you see him doing this successfully.

Any child who continues to hit for a long period of time may benefit from time with a family counselor or therapist. A trained professional can determine the reasons the child is hitting and help the family work out a plan to stop the behavior.