Toddlers may hit because they can't express themselves in words. If a toddler wants to play with you, they might hit you because they don't know how to tell you. If this happens, teach them the words they need to use to ask you to engage with them (also be ready to teach them that sometimes you can, and sometimes, they have to wait). Toddlers may also hit to express frustration, such as when they do not want to leave the playground. When this happens, offer empathy, while making it clear that hitting is not OK. You might say, "I know you're disappointed. But, you need to use gentle hands."