For those of you who have babies or toddlers, they may often be victims. Yes, almost all babies often pinch and even pull hair, whether it's being held, when put to sleep, or while playing. Instead of being anxious about you, there are other reasons why the baby likes to do it.
Instead of worrying, this is why babies like to pinch and pull hair
Instead of being annoyed or feeling anxious with you, your little one actually pinches or pulls his hair because he wants to know his environment. Yes, this is a way for babies to know and get to know their surroundings.
Babies aged 6-12 months, usually do this because of their great curiosity. For example, when a baby pulls your hair, basically he wants to know your response to what he is doing.
If you laugh, he might do it again and see if your reaction will be the same or not. Conversely, if you are angry, your little one will try to recognize the response. In addition, pulling and pinching is one way to train the muscles of their hands.
In contrast to children who have moved to the age of 2 years more, pinching and pulling hair is usually done to show their emotional feelings. Whether it's angry, upset or sad.
How do you respond to this child's habits?
Even though pinching and tugging at hair is trivial, the way you respond to this can determine future children's behavior. Of course, how to respond to this habit will vary depending on the age of the child.
How to respond to a baby who pinches and pulls hair
Babies basically do this to see the response and learn it. So, to make this not be the behavior he will do again and again, you should give a verbal and clear explanation to the child.
For example, you can say "no" while shaking your head. Next, raise your hand, for example, that is pulling your hair, and explain again that you don't like it, saying "you can't".
If the baby does this again, continue to give the same response.
Furthermore, when the baby has changed his actions, give praise, smile, or hug. For example, when your child no longer pulls hair but gently strokes you. Now, that's the sign the little one has understood and given a positive response to him.
How to respond to toddlers who like to pinch and pull hair
If your child still likes to make the habit of pinching and pulling hair, the first thing you need to do is find out why the child is doing it. From here you can determine what response is right.
For example, if a child pinches because he cannot put out words to explain his feelings, you should try to overcome them calmly, not immediately carried away by emotion.
Tell the child what happened, and pinching or pulling the hair will not make him more relieved. Serenity when dealing with this child will teach your child about how to deal with situations that are upsetting.
Another example, if a child seeks your attention by pinching or pulling hair, keep calm and divert your attention.