Toddler Behavior Problem-Solver

Head Banging

Why your tot knocks his noggin against the wall — and what you can do to curb the urge

Toddler Behavior

What it is: At bedtime, your toddler goes through a disturbing ritual. He bangs his head against the crib or the wall next to his beduntil, finally exhausted, he falls asleep.




What you need to know: It can be pretty terrifying to watch, but this is not unusual for toddlers (and his skull is actually tougher than you think). When should you worry? Talk to your child's doctor if the habit is still going strong after age three, or if he's physically hurting himself, seems unhappy all the time, doesn't communicate with other people, dislikes being touched, or spends a lot of his time doing one or more self-comforting activities.



  • Follow the rhythm. Satisfy your child's need for rhythmic action by inviting him to rock in a child-size rocker, clap to the beat of infectious music, ride in a teeter-totter, or play circle games like Ring Around the Rosie.
  • Set up safe surroundings. Move the bed or crib away from the wall, try padding the crib and other bangable surfaces within reach, and if necessary, detach the wheels from the crib and place a carpet underneath so it will stay in place.

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