J.H.
Hi M.,
I'm going through this with our 17 month old...whenever she hits (usually in the face), I grab her hand firmly yet gently and look at her sternly and simply say "NO". Saying "no, you don't hit mom or dad" is simply too much talking on your part for his age.
It's so normal, a stage all 3 of mine have gone through...It truly doesn't last too long...they're smart and figure it out!! As a matter of fact, our daughter last week put her hand on the stove and turned the knob, so I (gently) slapped her hand and told her no...today she put her hand near the stove and looked at me...I gave her my "stern mom look" and she shook her head and rubbed her hand...they are TOO SMART!!
Best wishes,
J.