How Do I Stop my Baby Hitting Me in the Face?

«How do I stop my baby hitting me in the face? It usually happens when putting him down for bed and he cracks up afterward. So frustrating.» 

I understand your frustration. The best thing you can do is not to give him a big reaction. Instead, every time he hits you, very calmly, take his hand, place it down on the bed or give him a teddy, and tell him in a neutral but firm voice say: “No, you don’t hit mummy”. Do this every time he hits you, and eventually he will stop.  

Don’t give him a big reaction because even if the reaction is negative, you are reinforcing the behaviour. Behaviours that are reinforced will be repeated.  

I hope this information helps and I wish you all the very best.  

Love,  

Ana 

Dr Ana Aznar