Understanding Why Infants Pull, Pinch, and Tug
In the developmental journey of babies, it is not uncommon for them to pinch, pull, or bite their care-givers. Tiffany Field, Ph.D., a renowned psychologist and director of the Touch Research Institute at Nova Southeastern University, attests to this. Infants venturing to explore their surroundings inherently leads to curious experiments, such as finding out the taste of skin, the sensation of pulling hair, and observing adult reactions to their prods.
Dr. Field reassures worried parents that, despite being painful, these actions are not intended to cause harm. It’s a part of their learning cycle, as repetition is crucial for them to decipher lessons.
Some infants apply the same behaviors of hair yanking and ear tugging during breast- or bottle-feeding. This, over time, might transform into a habit coupled with the contentment of a full belly, hence making the actions a comforting routine throughout the day.
Strategies to Handle Your Baby’s Pinching, Pulling and Tugging
Holding back with firmness
With infants less than 1 year old, curtailing the undesired behavior is straightforward. You can gently remove their hand when they attempt to pinch you, or if there is biting involved (sans the teeth), slip two fingers in their mouth, prying their jaws apart and pulling away. While doing so, firmly instruct them, “No. That hurts me.”
Avoid exaggerated reactions
Babies older than 1 year might interpret your flinching or abrupt movements as amusing, encouraging them to repeat the action.
Providing a delicate alternative
Demonstrate kinder ways to your baby to interact and explore. If hair tugging seems to be an engrossed activity, show them how to stroke it softly instead of yanking.
Eliminating the source
In some cases, merely removing the chances of such habits might prove beneficial. For instance, wearing your hair back or donning a collared shirt, rendering it difficult for your baby to grab, can be viable options.
Setting a gentle example
Though your infant may not thoroughly comprehend the difference, setting an example might assist. Facilitate this by handling your baby gently, as squeezing their adorable cheeks might not only be uncomfortable for them but also inadvertently instigate the message that such actions are acceptable, when they are not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my baby pinch and pull me?
It’s a natural phase in your baby’s development where they learn about their environment by touching, pinching and pulling.
How can I teach my baby not to pinch or pull?
Gently removing their hand and firmly saying “No, that hurts” when they pinch you can be effective. Also, demonstrating softer ways to explore can teach them kinder actions.
How can I avoid being pinched or pulled by my baby?
Limiting the tempting objects for your baby to reach, like your hair, by wearing it back or dressing in a way that makes it difficult to be grabbed, can help.
Should I worry if my baby frequently pulls or pinches?
It’s a part of their developmental phase, and they do not intend to cause harm. However, consult a pediatrician if you’re concerned about the frequency or intensity.
When does the phase of baby pulling or pinching stop?
As children grow and learn from your reactions, they will eventually understand that such behavior is not acceptable. The timing will vary for every child.