Adjusting...

So....Frankie seems to continue to need every one's prayers (actually, we all do!)  Adjusting to a daycare is going ok for everyone, but Frankie seems to be having the most trouble adjusting.  He is really struggling with...I am not really 100% sure I know exactly what!  He is happy at the daycare, doesn't get too upset when he is dropped off, naps well, eats well, is extremely happy every time I pick him up, but he HITS and PINCHES other kids!  It is to the point where the other kids are getting marks on their faces and the parents are complaining.  I have "that" kid in daycare that the others are afraid of and the parents don't like.  Terrific!  :(

We are very blessed to have such caring ladies to care for him.  I know they love him and he loves them.  He is just going through a phase (or so I keep telling myself).  And, I know he feels bad, because when we talk about it, he pouts and buries his head.  Poor guy. 

My heart is very heavy.  I want so badly to be home with him, but I can't and I know that he is probably acting out as a result of frustration with me going back to work.  I've dealt with enough kids and situations like this that I feel so frustrated that there isn't anything I can do to fix it this time.  :(  I want him to be loved and liked and to not be the bully!  Most of all I want him to feel loved and happy and safe.
He's just so stinkin' cute and little!!!!  Maybe it's all a compensation for being little! HA! 

Actions they are taking at daycare:
-telling him "No no! No pinching!  No hitting! That hurts!"
-putting him in the highchair for time out...but now it's the playpen so he doesn't associate the highchair with being in trouble since he needs desperately to eat!
-we are doing the same thing at home as we see it happen
What else can you do for a 16 month old? :(

Please just pray for him and us. I'll take any advice, too! :)