#asktheexpert hello ...My son is 14 months old and bangs his head

Question

Accepted Answer

such type of behaviour always decreases with increasing age of the child and it is very common behaviour at this age. 
with proper diversion and getting the child engaged in another things  will help in decreasing such behaviour.
z
meet your doctor for more advice and also share the video of such behaviour with the doctor.
also see that the child is not having iron deficiency because that can aggravate this behaviour

Accepted Answer

Head banging is a behavior that some babies and toddlers engage in, typically between the ages of 6 months to 3 years. While it can be concerning for parents, it's usually a self-soothing mechanism or a way for children to release tension. Here's what you can do:

### 1. **Stay Calm**:
- Remain calm and try not to overreact. Most of the time, head banging is harmless and doesn't indicate a serious problem.

### 2. **Provide a Safe Environment**:
- Ensure that the area where your baby bangs their head is safe and free of sharp corners or hard surfaces.
- Use padding or cushions in your baby's crib to minimize the risk of injury.

### 3. **Rule Out Pain or Discomfort**:
- Check for any signs of pain or discomfort that might be causing your baby to bang their head. Teething, ear infections, or other discomforts can sometimes lead to this behavior.

### 4. **Attention and Response**:
- Sometimes, babies engage in head banging to seek attention or a response from their caregivers. Provide positive attention and reassurance when your baby is calm and not banging their head.

### 5. **Establish a Bedtime Routine**:
- Establish a soothing bedtime routine to help your baby relax before sleep. This can include activities like a warm bath, gentle massage, reading a book, or soft music.

### 6. **Limit Screen Time**:
- Minimize exposure to screens, such as TV, tablets, or smartphones, as excessive screen time can sometimes contribute to stress or overstimulation.

### 7. **Consult with a Pediatrician**:
- If you're concerned about your baby's head banging behavior or if it's accompanied by other symptoms such as developmental delays, speech delays, or aggressive behavior, consult with your pediatrician.
- Your pediatrician can assess your baby's overall health and development and provide guidance specific to your child's needs.

### 8. **Stay Vigilant**:
- While head banging is usually harmless, keep an eye on your baby to ensure they're not causing themselves harm. If you notice any signs of injury or if the behavior becomes excessively violent, seek medical attention.

### 9. **Redirect Attention**:
- Distract your baby with other activities or toys when you notice them starting to bang their head. Engage them in play or provide them with a soft toy to hold onto.

### 10. **Stay Patient**:
- Remember that most babies outgrow head banging as they develop other coping mechanisms and communication skills. Stay patient and supportive during this phase.

By providing a safe environment, ruling out any underlying issues, and responding calmly, you can help manage your baby's head banging behavior effectively. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to seek advice from your pediatrician.