DiscoverOh Crap with Jamie268: How to Handle Spitting, Hitting & Other Physical Behaviors
268: How to Handle Spitting, Hitting & Other Physical Behaviors

268: How to Handle Spitting, Hitting & Other Physical Behaviors

Update: 2025-10-30
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Description

In this episode, I’m talking about one of those behaviors that makes every parent’s blood boil—spitting—and what it really means when your kid does it. Whether it’s silly toddler raspberries or full-on disrespect, spitting (and other physical behaviors like hitting, biting, and jumping on furniture) are never random. I’ll walk you through how to identify what’s underneath the behavior—attention-seeking, anger, sensory needs, or boundary-testing—and what to actually do about it. From setting consistent limits to adding more physical play and heavy work, this one’s packed with practical, no-BS tools to get your sanity back and your kid regulated.


Timestamps:

00:00 — Welcome + Jamie’s tech fails & cashmere sweater story02:00 — Hair disasters & leaning into imperfection04:15 — What we’re really talking about today: spitting06:00 — The different types of spitting (silly, reactionary, disrespectful)08:45 — Why spitting feels so triggering to parents10:15 — Breaking down the reasons kids spit12:30 — Getting a reaction vs. attention-seeking vs. sensory needs17:00 — Disrespectful spitting and boundary breakdowns20:30 — How to identify patterns in behavior (time, place, people)25:45 — Understanding sensory needs and emotional release29:00 — The importance of physical outlets (heavy work, movement)33:30 — How to respond: overreacting vs. calm consistency37:15 — Setting limits & consequences without over-processing emotions42:00 — Addressing the need before the consequence44:15 — Why kids need more physical exertion than schools allow48:00 — Final thoughts + Jamie’s classic “put your phone down” sign-off


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268: How to Handle Spitting, Hitting & Other Physical Behaviors

268: How to Handle Spitting, Hitting & Other Physical Behaviors

Jamie Glowacki