Baby Hitting Himself

by Jayne
(Christchurch NZ)

My 12 month son has started to hit himself on his head ie when he hurts himself by falling over or when he does not get his own way. I know it's a sign of frustration, but what can I do to make him stop?






Baby Help Line Response:

Hi Jayne!

You can say "no" and stop his hand in a gentle way. It is normal behaviour, but I agree with you that it is also normal for a parent to want to react to it. Say "no, pat nicely" and take his hand away again and again and again. You can also confirm his anger by saying that "I understand that you're angry, but don't hit yourself." And you can show, using his hand or yours what you mean by patting nicely and being gentle. Just don't force him or yell at him – no point at his age.

It will take time to make him change this behaviour and he will probably stop anyway at some point. But telling him to be nice to himself can't hurt.

Hope this helps!

/Paula