Understanding your baby's behaviour
These six types of baby behaviour are all just part and parcel of growing up
01 April 2008
1
Crying If you’ve exhausted all possible causes – he’s not hungry, dirty, tired or ill – put your baby in his cot out of harm’s way and take a few minutes’ time out. You’ll both benefit as, if you’re less stressed, your baby will be too. For more advice, see our feature on coping with a crying baby.
2
Head banging “Some babies deliberately bang their heads against the cot sides or the wall. It’s usually a self-comforting habit and nothing to worry about, however, keep an eye out for stress-related causes. Move the cot away from the wall and use cot bumpers (once your baby’s over one). In extreme cases, consult your GP or health visitor.”
Eileen Hayes MBE, NSPCC parenting advisor and mum of four
3
Biting when breastfeeding Teething or a blocked nose can cause a baby to bite. But don’t push him away, pull him into the breast – he’ll have to open his mouth to breathe and you can escape!
4
Disappearing dummies Babies don’t think, “I’ll need that dummy later” — if they don’t want something, they simply let go. Buy lots of spares and leave some in the cot so that, when they lose their dummy in their sleep, they’ll hopefully find another by themselves and won’t wake you up.
5
Table manners “Don’t laugh if your baby spits out food or, as my son did, empties his bowl over his head. I did — and, thinking he was being funny, Ben did it again and again… for months!”
Judi, mum of Ben, 13 months
6
Chewing dangerous objects All babies put things in their mouths, as they are exploring and learning from their surroundings. Not sure if a toy is small enough for them to choke on? If it can’t fit through the end of a toilet roll tube, then it’s okay. Keep smaller objects well out of reach. For more safety advice, see our feature on making your home child-safe.
Words: Abigail Flanagan. Illustration: Ana Diaz
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