Head Banging
Babies also employ some self-soothing techniques to comfort themselves. These movements are normal and even fun to watch sometimes. Head banging and body rocking are some of the common activities that come under them. They help in relaxing and soothing the baby and drifting off to a comfortable sleep. Apart from these, your baby may also use these techniques to distract himself from pain in case he is teething or has an ear infection.
Head banging is very common in babies. They tend to bang their heads on purpose. The possibility of boys banging their heads is far more than that for the girls. So, it can be said that this habit depends on a baby’s nature. This bang-it-baby habit starts somewhere around the six months mark and reaches its peak when the baby becomes around eighteen to twenty-four months old. It is observed that most children come out of this habit when they become around three years old.
Some babies tend to bang their foreheads or the back of their heads against the headboards of their cribs while some prefer the crib railings. There is also a considerable number of babies who roll their heads from one side to another while they are lying on their backs. This habit can cause a bald spot on the back of their heads.
Head banging is not a sign of developmental or emotional problems in your baby. So you so not need to worry if your baby does it. However, you need to talk to his doctor when you see him doing so. These movements are very much harmless but still you need to keep his crib in a proper condition. Watch out for any loose screws and bolts that have loosened and tighten them up. You should not use pillows as a precautionary measure to soften up the suitable-for-banging positions in his crib. They may pose a suffocation hazard. Go for especially designed crib bumpers that are firm and stay properly between the railing (and headboard) and your baby’s head.
If your baby feels restless even after these activities, make sure you calm him down using a bath, some soft music or a lullaby. Also, giving him a massage, or rocking him for some extra time is a very good option. Staying close to him can do a world of good to him. Cuddle him up with you and be very patient when you are with him. He needs you and your fussing will only affect his behavior.
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Filed Under: Care & Safety
