Q: Why is my 5-month-old baby hitting her own face?

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Question: My 5-month-old baby keeps hitting her own face with her hands. Is this normal, and should I be worried?

Answer: It’s very common for babies around 5 months old to explore their movements and body. Here’s what might be happening and what you can do:

Why Is She Hitting Her Face? * Exploration: Babies at this age are still learning to control their movements. Hitting her face could simply be a part of this exploration. * Teething: If she’s teething, she might be using her hands to soothe discomfort in her face or mouth. * Tiredness: Sometimes, babies rub or hit their faces when they’re tired or overstimulated.

What Can You Do? * Redirect: Gently hold her hands or offer a soft toy or teether to keep her hands busy. * Check for Teething: If she’s teething, you can try a cold teething ring or rub her gums gently to relieve discomfort. * Observe Patterns: If she does this when tired, help her settle for a nap sooner.

When to Worry: If she seems distressed, has redness or swelling on her face, or if you notice other unusual behavior, consult your pediatrician. Otherwise, this behavior is likely part of normal development and will pass as she gains more control over her movements.

You’re doing great—let me know if you have more questions

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