What is the best way to deal with head-banging?
If your child has no additional health or development needs, the best way to deal with head-banging is to ignore it whilst ensuring they are in a safe environment. Giving the child attention will increase the need for negative attention, especially if occuring during a tantrum. Distracting the child with a toy or offering a snack/drink may stop the tantrum.
A good way to work with your child is to incorporate their love of rhythm and movement by encouraging them to play marching games, air drum, drumming on cushion/pots and pans and listening to rhythmic music as this may soothe them.
At night, a ticking clock placed in their room may give them a regular rhythmic sound to focus on as they drift off to sleep.
Safety ideas
- if your child sleeps in a cot, regularly check the bolts and screws havent been loosened by the head-banging
- keep the cot clear of bumpers, toys and loose bedding
- place cushions or hard/shape areas of flooring to protect the child's head
- if your child sleeping in bed, move it away from the wall
Visit www.lullabytrust.org.uk for more safe sleeping advice.
When to seek medical advice
Please contact the Health Visiting service if your child is still head-banging after three years, intentionally harming themselves, or you feel that your child has additional developmental concerns that need to be assessed.