Grabbing ears, kicking legs in the air, arching backs… these are all incredibly adorable and funny actions seen in newborns. Do you know why your baby behaves this way?
1. Grabbing Ears
This is an action you will frequently observe when you are “neglecting” your baby. It indicates that the baby is trying to get your attention. Additionally, grabbing ears is a sign that the baby is curious and exploring their body. Especially for babies from 5 months old and up, this is a stage where they are becoming familiar with their own body, so they often grab their ears.
In this case, gently pull your baby’s hands away to prevent them from inadvertently scratching their ears, as their nails may be sharp or long. Also, you should affectionately talk to your baby, as they might be seeking your affection at that moment.
In other situations, if you see your baby grabbing their ears with a frown, or if they are tugging at their ears making them red… this may indicate that they are experiencing discomfort in their ears, such as itching or pain. If this occurs frequently, you should take your baby to a pediatrician to find out the cause.
2. Clenching Hands
If your baby has a habit of clenching their hands for 3 months, take them to the doctor immediately.
When your baby reaches 3 months old, they often develop a habit of clenching their hands and raising them up high. This action shows that the baby is either excited or uncomfortable. Depending on the expression on your baby’s face, you can guess whether they are happy or upset. If your baby is smiling, they are happy; if their face is flushed, their body is tense, and their hands are clenched, they may be uncomfortable, and you should check if they are in pain. Additionally, if your baby has a habit of clenching their hands for 3 months, you should take them to the doctor immediately.
3. Kicking Legs in the Air
This action can have many meanings. If your baby kicks their legs along with a displeased attitude, it means they are sulking because you are not meeting their demands. Babies from 6 months old and above clearly display signs of tantrums. On the other hand, if your baby kicks their legs while bathing or playing, it indicates that they are very happy. At this moment, you should make funny faces and play with your child to prolong their joy.
4. Startling
This is a reaction indicating that the child is agitated or scared. You need to pay attention to how often your baby startles throughout the day, as excessive startling may indicate an unstable nervous system, and you should take them to see a doctor immediately. Also, always create a quiet environment for your baby to play and rest, as this helps reduce startling and promotes optimal brain development.
5. Bowing Head Down
If you notice your baby with their bottom in the air and their head bowed down, it could mean they are overly excited or in pain. Gently approach them for a cuddle and check if they are hurting anywhere. If your baby is not crying and continues to smile and coo while bowing their head, it means they are simply trying to get your attention; however, if they seem to be in pain, you need to take them to see a doctor.
If your baby is not crying and still smiling while bowing their head, it means they are just trying to get your attention.
6. Turning Away
This action indicates that the baby does not want to eat or does not want you anymore. When you see your baby turning away, it is best to change your approach and do something different to make them happy again. Babies also often do this with strangers when they want to be held; it shows that your little one is growing up and recognizing who is familiar and who is a stranger.
7. Crying and Squirming
If you see your baby crying and squirming, with their arms and legs curled up, it indicates that they are in pain. You should immediately hold your baby and check if they are hurt anywhere. If you cannot determine the cause, you should take your baby to a doctor for timely treatment.
8. Arching Chest and Back
This is a very cute action in babies, but it can also be concerning. If your baby arches their back and chest, with a flushed face, it means they may be sulking or experiencing some pain. In the case of sulking, quickly comfort them to soothe their feelings. Additionally, you should thoroughly check if your baby is in pain; if they continue this behavior while crying or showing discomfort, you should take them to see a doctor immediately.
